While it is true that there is a large representation of NJ and surrounding ares, Peddie is a true boarding school and definitely does not empty out. It is not a “weekday boarding school” like Hun are Pennington may be, with a very small population. Even the few boarders that are only 30 minutes from home stick around bc that is where their friends/teammates/community are. Actually, a lot of those 30 minute away kids started as day students who successfully talked their parents into letting them board.
The school provides plenty of opportunities for the kids to have fun and unwind in a normal HS existence kind of way. There are occasional dances, trips to the movies, ice skating, food truck nights, day trips to Princeton, a Broadway trip every term. Clubs and Student Council organize events too. The boarding and day population is well integrated and plenty of day students participate in weekend activities (and boarders are invited to visit with day student friends).
There is always something to do without being go-go-go. Peddie is not a grind but it is rigorous and a six day school. Sometimes just want downtime on a Saturday night, to unwind and chill with friends. I like that there is room for that too.