The Second Annual Johnnies Will Take Place on Saturday, March 28

The Dean of Students Office (DSO) is rolling out the crimson carpet. Though a newer tradition, the Johnnies—an award show coordinated with the Crimson Key Society—honors the work of each House’s Housing Day video. The earliest videos on YouTube date back to 2009, with some of the most popular reaching up to 88,000 views, surpassing the size of the current student population. 

As these videos have become the ultimate ode to House pride, the Johnnies recognize students’ creativity, community-building, and spirit. On Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 7 pm, the DSO will host an evening of glamour and celebration in Sanders Theatre, complete with a photo booth, red carpet, and red carpet-style interviews debuting on the College Instagram. Last year’s inaugural event was limited to a small group of invited guests.

"There’s really nothing like the Johnnies at Harvard," shared Crimson Key Society member Ryan Irving ’27. "The excitement and energy is incredibly contagious, and despite my hope to beat out other Houses and bring home a Johnnie, the event truly is an amazing celebration of the sense of community and belonging that makes Harvard so special."

This year, the event will be open to the entire Harvard community. Students will also be able to vote in five of six award categories—Video of the Year, Best Editing & Visual Effects, Best Lyrics, Best Choreography, and Most House Pride—with voting opening Monday and closing at 11:59 pm on Wednesday.

"Students at the College are brimming with creativity, and there is no better display of their unique talents than the Housing Day videos," said Dean of Students, Thomas Dunne. "I'm so grateful that The Johnnies provides a platform to recognize their tremendous work, and highlight the vibrant house culture more broadly. I think Housing Day is the best college tradition in the country, and the creation of the Johnnies is a wonderful new addition to this celebration."

Will you be at the Johnnies? More information is available on the DSO website.