Key takeaways
- Parents’ Weekend, also called College Family Weekend, is a special fall event where families visit their student on campus.
- Most schools plan a full schedule of campus events, athletic events, and family-friendly activities.
- Book your hotel early. Local accommodations fill up fast, especially at larger schools.
Flickr user Elmira College
So, what is Parents’ Weekend in college? It’s a designated weekend, usually in early October, when colleges open their doors to families. It gives parents and family members a chance to visit campus, meet their student’s friends, and get a real feel for their child’s new life at school.
What is the purpose of Parents’ Weekend?
Parents’ Weekend serves a few important purposes. For families, it’s a chance to see campus life up close, not just during orientation, but while classes are in session and students are living their daily routines.
For students, especially freshmen, it may be a huge boost. Seeing a familiar face after the first stretch of the semester can help with homesickness and remind students that their family is still cheering them on.
Student Affairs offices typically organize the event, coordinating everything from welcome receptions to a full schedule of Parents’ Weekend activities.
When does Parents’ Weekend usually happen?
Most schools hold Parents’ Weekend in early October, though exact dates vary. Some schools call it College Family Weekend to include siblings, grandparents, and other loved ones.
Check your student’s school website early. Many schools require College Family Weekend registration in advance, and some charge a small registration fee. The earlier you look, the easier it will be to plan.
What activities happen during Parents’ Weekend?
Every school puts its own spin on College Family Weekend. Here’s what a typical schedule might look like:
Friday
- Arrival and welcome reception hosted by the college president or Student Affairs team
- Open houses for academic departments and student organizations
- Optional campus tours
Saturday
- Saturday brunch in the dining hall
- Home football game or other sporting events
- Campus tours, alumni receptions, and academic panels
- Concerts or performances hosted by student groups
Sunday
- A quieter morning, which is good for breakfast out and one-on-one time before heading home
The home football game is a cherished tradition at many schools. If your school has a big game scheduled, buy tickets early and plan for parking.
Tips for making the most of Parents’ Weekend
- Book your hotel early. Local hotels fill up fast. Make reservations as soon as you know the dates, sometimes as early as summer.
- Let your student lead. Ask what they want to do and who they want you to meet. You may end up at a club performance you’d never have found on your own.
- Plan some time on your own. Your student may have study sessions or other commitments. Use free time to explore campus or the surrounding town.
- Bring things from home for your student. Warmer clothes, favorite snacks, or dorm room essentials are always appreciated. A quick trip to the grocery store is a classic Parents’ Weekend tradition.
- Keep goodbyes short. Your student may be glad you came, but also ready to get back to their routine. A warm hug and a quick goodbye work better than a long farewell.
What if you can’t attend Parents’ Weekend?
Not every family can make it, and that’s okay. Here are some ways to still show up for your student:
- Send a care package to arrive right before the weekend with snacks, a note, and anything they’ve mentioned needing.
- Plan a video call; even 20 minutes can make you and your student feel connected.
- Visit another time. A quieter weekend later in the semester may feel more personal without the crowds.
- Encourage your student to join others. If a roommate’s family is on campus, most are happy to include an extra person for a meal.
Why Parents’ Weekend matters
Parents’ Weekend gives families a real picture of campus life, not the brochure version, but the actual day-to-day experience that their student is living. For freshmen, seeing family after the first few weeks of college may help ease the transition. For parents, it’s often the moment when dropping off their child starts to feel less like a loss and more like a milestone.
Frequently asked questions
What is Parents’ Weekend in college?
Most colleges set aside one weekend each fall specifically for families. Known as Parents’ Weekend or College Family Weekend, it’s a chance for parents, siblings, and other loved ones to visit campus and get a feel for their student’s new life.
Does Parents’ Weekend include athletic events?
Yes, at many schools. A home football game is one of the most popular College Family Weekend traditions. Tickets may sell out quickly, so buy them in advance. Other sporting events, such as soccer or volleyball, may also be scheduled.
What role does Student Affairs play during Parents’ Weekend?
Student Affairs offices plan and run most of College Family Weekend. They coordinate the schedule, organize welcome receptions, and work with campus partners. If you have questions before or during the weekend, Student Affairs is usually the best place to start.
What if my student is busy during Parents’ Weekend?
That’s completely normal. Students may have study commitments or other responsibilities. Build in flexible time so neither of you feels pressured, and use any downtime to explore the campus or surrounding area on your own.
Is Parents’ Weekend worth attending?
For most families, yes. It’s one of the few times the campus is specifically welcoming families. The weekend may give you a clearer sense of your student’s daily life and give your student a feeling of home in the middle of the semester.
Make the most of your Parents’ Weekend in college
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