The day we’ve all been waiting for (or dreading) is nearly upon us! The day signalling one last hurrah before we’re locked in, chained to a library desk somewhere, desperate for exams to be done, but also wanting as much time as possible to cram every ounce of knowledge into our over-caffeinated and sleep deprived brains. It is, of course, C-Sunday.

Every year, you’ll see Camfess discourse about when the infamous Sunday will be, in eager anticipation of the day. Whatever you need to get through the term, am I right? With so much at stake (the last big celebration), you have to do it right! Whether you’re an expert on the day, or about to experience your first, here is Varsity’s carefully curated guide to surviving and thriving on C-Sunday:

“There is nothing worse than wasting a whole day, dedicated to debauchery and drinking, because you’ve hit your limit at 11am”

Know your limits

There is nothing worse than wasting a whole day, dedicated to debauchery and drinking, because you’ve hit your limit at 11am (before college brunch). With such a build-up to the big day, you don’t want to have to be sent to bed earlier than you would get up on a lazy Sunday morning. Make sure you know how much you can (sensibly drink) before it all gets a little bit too much.

There are also limits that aren’t linked to your alcohol tolerance, you need to be aware of. If you don’t drink, don’t like being around drunk people, or just have horrific hayfever that’s triggered by Jesus Green, this may not be the best day for you. Make sure it’s still a fun day planned so you forget about any FOMO you might experience. Also, if you have an exam on Monday, I’d suggest that’s a big limit. C-Sunday, as great as it is, is not worth failing your degree for.

Eat something

Fairly basic one, but essential if you’re going for the sustained approach. With it being a Sunday, most colleges will still have a brunch service. Utilise this well before the downpour of alcohol commences. Being on Jesus Green, you’re central enough to be able to grab food when the drunken greasy food cravings kick in. You’ll be grateful you ate by the time the delayed hangover begins at 7pm.

Know who to avoid (and who you want to see)

For the people-watchers amongst us, C-Sunday is great for seeing everybody you have ever met in Cambridge. It’s like being back in first year Kiki’s again. However, it’s natural that you’ve formed parasocial enemy relationships with people over the years. Make sure you know to avoid them. Choose your spot on the green wisely and keep your friends close, and your enemies on the opposite side of the path.

Avoid the press

You’ve probably experienced major (delayed) hangxiety when you spot yourself in the Revs photo drop a few days later. Imagine how much worse it’ll be when you see your face in newspaper tabloids the next morning. They’re always ready to pounce and call out the shameful activities of our future leaders. Bore off, we’re only 21 and allowed some fun. Nonetheless, make sure it’s not you they get. Similarly, avoid doing anything too wild that could get photographed. The infamous lamppost climbing never ceases to amaze, but I promise you, you won’t reach the top. And is it worth your mum seeing you on the news the next day?

“Worst case scenario, Mainsbury’s alcohol aisle will be cleared on Saturday night and you don’t want to fail at the first hurdle”

Pre-plan your drinks

Similarly to knowing your limits, it’s wisest to plan your drinks ahead of time. Worst case scenario, Mainsbury’s alcohol aisle will be cleared on Saturday night and you don’t want to fail at the first hurdle. Consider what sort of hangover you can recover best from, whether you want to mix types of drinks, and if you’re planning on using spirits, how will you pour the drinks? A tip from a seasoned veteran: bringing paper cups and pouring measures that way will make you the hero of the day!

Pace yourself

Though drinking on a field in your youth is a rite of passage for many, almost a requirement in the North, it seems like all previous knowledge goes out the window on this momentous day. If you’re even going to attempt to make it to the club on this day, you’re going to need to pace yourself. It’s more than okay to stop drinking and then resume, if you so wish. If you know you’re starting early, for whatever clandestine reasons those may be, then slowing it down is essential for making the most of the crowded field. It’s a marathon, not a sprint (the closest I’ll ever be to doing a marathon, that’s for sure).

Of course, these tips are designed for being a guide, rather than a checklist. As long as you’re having a good time, staying safe, and avoiding the national press, you’re good to go. Make the most of it, how many days like these will you get at Cambridge?