Every year, Harvard hosts two big music festivals right in Harvard Yard, which are Crimson Jam and Yardfest. These events are organized by the Harvard College Events Board.
Being on the board for this committee was something I wanted to do even before I applied to Harvard. I was very interested and excited about the idea of event planning, especially planning large musical events. Given that I am interested in music and the entertainment industry, the experience of being on the College Events Board has given me so many opportunities. As a co-director for the Arts and Entertainment Committee, I learned how to communicate with stakeholders and work with my team to create the best event possible for the wider school community.
I joined the College Events Board in the fall semester of my freshman year, and since then, I have met Tinashe, Natasha Bedingfield, Daya, NOTD, and Bryce Vine. I love my role as staff during Yardfest and Crimson Jam, as I am able to ensure everyone has a great time, meet with the artists’ teams, help set up the green room, and give amazing student bands on campus the opportunity to showcase their talents.
Crimson Jam happens at the start of the fall semester, which means we begin planning for it during the summer, while Yardfest usually happens in the middle of the spring semester, with planning beginning in the fall. I deeply appreciate my committee members; each of us has unique and different tastes in music, so it is always exciting to see a glimpse of everyone’s opinions and blend them together.
I am excited for Yardfest 2026, and it is always amazing to have this opportunity to help plan one of Harvard’s biggest annual events!
