The Lion’s Den, one of Emerson’s busiest social spots, will now be open on the weekends and operate on extended hours, according to an email sent to the Emerson community by the college on Sunday. 

This change is being made in response to feedback received from various student organizations, like the Student Government Association and the Student Presidential Advisory Group. 

While the Lion’s Den kitchen will operate on its usual hours, the space will be open longer during the week and on weekends, providing greater access to students to utilize on-campus spaces. 

“We understand the importance of these spaces—places beyond home, work, or class—for fostering connection, creativity, and collaboration,” the email read. “The Lion’s Den has been a gathering spot for students, faculty, and staff, and by extending its hours, we aim to create even more opportunities for meaningful interactions, casual conversations, and community-building.”

The email specifically addressed the needs of off-campus students in utilizing the space. 

“We also acknowledge that our off-campus students require additional space to gather during the evenings and on weekends. These extended hours offer more chances for commuters to meet, relax, and engage with the Emerson community outside of class time,” the email continued.

Monday through Friday, the Lion’s Den kitchen will operate on regular hours and the space will stay open from 7 p.m. to 12 a.m. The space will be open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturdays, and 7 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Sundays. The kitchen will remain closed on both Saturday and Sunday. 

“Increasing access to third spaces has been a huge priority for our administration this year,” SGA President Nandan Nair wrote in a statement to The Beacon. “We’re really thankful to everyone in leadership that helped to problem solve and put this into motion, and so happy that we are able to deliver on one of our campaign promises.”