Martel throws the first and last college-hosted public parties of each academic year. It all starts with our “Don’t Mess With Texas” party: a welcome to those who are new here, and a revival to those who have lived here all their lives and still can’t get enough. Obviously, it’s Texas-themed, as a way to welcome out-of-staters to the “unique” culture that is Texas. Grab your boots and lasso, and head out to the Sundeck.

Every October, we host a mini-Oktoberfest here on campus with bratwurst, beer, and live performances.

While Rice doesn’t have “Greek Life,” Martel does – at least by virtue of our namesake. Every year, for a week, we celebrate our first move in day (January 28) as well as the Greek heritage of our founding father, Speros P. Martel. It’s a week of non-stop Martel love, in which we’ll have fancy dinners, movie nights, karaoke, Greek-themed Parliament, and our famous pageant to crown Martel's best. Every year, Greek Week concludes with Birthday Party. 

it's coming.

Spirits Committee plans these Friday college get-togethers in Martel's quad, often with intricate themes from Back to School to Women's History Month. 

We celebrate the last Friday of fall semester with a huge Christmas tree in commons. All of Martel comes together for food, karaoke, and annual family pictures.