A Legacy Showcasing Cal Poly
The first Open House on campus was called “Farmers’ Picnic.” On May 24, 1904, about 200 visitors toured new buildings, watched agricultural shows and ate barbecue. In 1913, Farmers’ Picnic attracted 3,000 people, and in 1933, administrators made plans to create “A Country Fair on a College Campus.” They named it Poly Royal.
The first Poly Royal was held March 31, 1933, with a parade, livestock judging, agriculture shows, horticulture exhibits and, of course, a barbecue in Poly Grove. The day ended with a Poly Royal Dance in Crandall Gym. Poly Royal grew to be one of the main events on the campus social calendar and embodied Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing philosophy.
At the second annual Poly Royal event, parents, alumni, prospective students and community visitors were welcomed to join in the celebration. In 1944, Poly Royal became a one-day event. Poly Royal had annual themes and a guest of honor each year. Soon, the selection of the Poly Royal Queen became a much-anticipated event. Large crowds formed to watch the parade and see the new queen.
In 1990, an unruly crowd of 1,000 people vandalized several stores and residences. Arrests were made and damages repaired, but Poly Royal was in jeopardy. Cal Poly postponed Poly Royal for the next four years.
In 1994, Open House was born with approval from President Warren Baker. Today, Open House is a culmination of Farmers’ Picnic and Poly Royal with new events and Admitted Students' Preview Day to provide a showcase weekend for the university. Newly admitted students, their supporters, parents, current students, faculty, alumni, friends and community members are invited to experience all that Cal Poly offers.
