Social Activities
Ricci Hall's social calendar builds brotherhood through a set of traditions passed down over decades — from the formal High Table Dinner to the annual Gong Fight with Lady Ho Tung Hall.
High Table Dinner
An English college tradition, the High Table Dinner is a regular formal occasion and part of hall education. Honourable guests deliver speeches, and residents attend in formal dress.
The evening commences with addresses from the Warden and the Chairman of the Students' Association, followed by a curated selection of Cantonese cuisine shared by guests and residents alike.
The night concludes with the Hall's signature High Table Talks — a rare opportunity for current residents to engage with distinguished guest speakers and esteemed alumni, who return to the Hall to share insights from their professional journeys and mentor the next generation of Riccians.
Associate Members of the Hall join current residents at the table, making it a rare occasion for the wider Ricci community to gather together.
The flavour of a shared meal is seasoned best by the virtues of the company.
The Formal Experience
Communal Solidarity
The dinner provides a rare moment for the entire Hall to gather as one. This collective experience strengthens the fraternal bonds that define Ricci.
Distinguished Guests
Residents engage with Riccians who became leaders in academia, industry, and the arts, expanding their horizons through meaningful conversation.
Academic Regalia
The requirement of formal dress reinforces a sense of shared identity and collective pride among the brotherhood.
The Gong Fight Tradition
This function has lasted since several decades ago. Every year we have the Gong Fight with Lady Ho Tung Hall as a traditional joint-hall function. Freshmen Captain and Vice Freshmen Captain lead their fellow freshmen to capture the Gong of Lady Ho Tung Hall.
The legend goes that the Gong is to signify supper time in Lady Ho Tung Hall. Several decades ago, some naughty Riccians secretly moved the Gong from Lady Ho Tung Hall to Ricci Hall, and after that year, this mission became a traditional function. Every lady in Lady Ho Tung Hall will prepare thousands of water bombs to welcome the brothers from Ricci.
Reunion Ball
One of the most formal traditional functions of the Hall, the Reunion Ball was first held in the 1960s. It is a grand function costing around HK$200,000 to stage, and a year of preparation goes into building the brotherhood and maturity of those who organise it.
Champion Day
Champion Day shares in the achievements of hallmates across sports, culture, and service, with guests presenting prizes to those who have contributed to the Hall.
Dragon Boat Race
Held every Tuen Ng Festival, the Dragon Boat Race is a long-standing tradition and a chance to unwind after exams. Riccians follow the race with a Tuen Ng swim.
Social Gathering
An annual informal function for freshmen, the Social Gathering is built around a tailored theme and dancing. It gives new Riccians a chance to develop their talent, manner, and social skills.
Gallery
These traditions have shaped Ricci Hall since 1929 and continue to welcome international brothers into the fold — read more on our International Students page.