Who invented spring break?

SPRING break is a highly anticipated vacation period for students of all ages around the United States.

But who invented the academic hiatus and when did it become popular? Here's all you need to know...

Who invented spring break? 

Similar to fraternities and sororities, the idea of spring break can be traced all the way back to Greek and Roman celebrations of spring.

In ancient times spring festivities revolved around honoring the gods of wine.

However, the American concept began in 1938 with a swim forum event in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. 

By 1960, the event began to become very popular and students would come to town in huge numbers.

Local businesses took advantage of the crowds and began offering specials such as all-you-can-drink beer for $1.50. 

It soon became the primary destination for students interested in partying during spring break.

How long is spring break? 

Spring Break is typically scheduled as a one-week break during the month of March or April.

The peak of scheduled breaks are during the final two weeks of March, but dates vary across establishments.

In New York, for instance, NYC schools have scheduled spring break on April 15 to April 22, 2022 - while certain public schools in the state have planned for the break to commence a week earlier than the 15th.

Scheduling depends on the state and its respective school districts.

What is the purpose of spring break? 

Spring break is a vacation period for schools and universities that often includes the Easter holidays.

Spring break is meant for family gatherings for the holidays - however, it is more often associated with partying by college students

When did spring break become popular?

Year after year more and more students would rush to Ft. Lauderdale.

By 1985 more than 370,000 people came to the town to enjoy their spring breaks.

With the size of the crowds difficult to control, at least 2,500 students were arrested within a week for rowdy behaviour.

Spring break that year was shut down by police and drinking on the beaches was banned.

However, after students were told they would no longer be welcome, hundreds of other alternative parties popped up across the US - leading to the birth of the modern spring break.