Students and staff gathered in University Yard Friday night to celebrate George Washington’s Birthday. The event featured a massive bonfire, s’mores, music and an appearance by the GW’s George Washington mascot.

“Our ceremony is 25-years-old. George Washington, however, is 285-years-old,” University President Steven Knapp said as he kicked off the night’s festivities. “This bonfire is one of several events this year that we are going to be celebrating in the month of February.”