One year ago, Penn asked all students who had gone away for spring break not return to campus, aiming to limit the spread of COVID-19. Students who had remained on campus were instructed to move out of their residences by March 15 — a date that was later extended to March 17. This spring break, Penn asked all students to stay.

In an effort to limit student travel amid the ongoing pandemic, the University shortened spring break this year to March 10 and 11 and held a series of “Spring Stay” events throughout campus and the Philadelphia area. Record-breaking temperatures that climbed into the 70s encouraged students to stay outside, and various organizations also held grab-and-greet events so students could meet new people. Here's how some students enjoyed a spring break unlike any other on campus this year.

Many students held picnics and relaxed with friends on College Green over Spring Stay, reveling in the uncommonly warm weather.

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Many students participated in the Campus Grab & Greet Treasure Hunt from 1-3 p.m. on March 11, which had students visit various locations across campus to pick up swag and meet new organizations.

The Greenfield Intercultural Center held their portion of the Grab & Greet event on their backyard patio.

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Students lined up in the heat to visit tables under the tent in front of Houston Hall.

Penn First Plus, which opened its new office in College Hall last month, was one of the organizations that tabled in front of Houston Hall.

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The Penn Museum offered guided tours of various exhibits throughout Spring Stay.

Social distancing was encouraged at all events, as well as masking and handwashing, as part of the Penn Cares initiative.

Pottruck Health and Fitness Center invited students to play in an indoor Spikeball tournament on March 12.

Although only two days long, this year's spring break allowed students time to relax after Penn's third semester of virtual classes, get outside to appreciate the sunny weather, and catch up with friends.