Feeling overwhelmed by the number of Family Weekend events to experience? The Diamondback has you covered.
Those registered for Family Weekend should pick up their wristbands and tickets in the atrium of Stamp Student Union from 12:30 to 8 p.m. on Friday and 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.
Here’s a list of some of the most unforgettable activities for a fun-filled weekend with your loved ones.
Friday, Oct. 3
2:30 to 4:30 p.m.
The Clarice at 25 Exhibition Tour
The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center is celebrating 25 years as this university’s hub for performing arts. At one point, it was the largest single building in Maryland.
In the Michelle Smith Performing Arts Library, visitors can see an exhibition of photos and documents chronicling the history of performing arts at this university. A guided tour will be available at 3 p.m.
6 to 8:30 p.m.
McKeldin Movie Night: Night of the Living Dead
The University Libraries are ushering in spooky season with a screening of one of the most iconic horror movies out there — Night of the Living Dead. A post-film discussion will be held as part of the libraries’ “Library of the Macabre: Researching Horror in Popular Culture” programming in their Scholarship as Conversation series.
Popcorn and drinks will also be available to attendees. There’s no add-on fee, but you have to register in advance to attend.
Saturday, Oct. 4
9 to 10 a.m.
7th Annual 0.5K for Terp Essential Needs
Though not exactly a race, participants in the 0.5K will complete stretches from McKeldin Library to the Miller Administration Building with a midway hydration station to grab coffee and donuts.
All participants will receive a commemorative bumper sticker, and proceeds from registration will go to the Fostering Terp Success Program and the Campus Pantry. The two resources provide resources to combat student homelessness and food insecurity.
To attend, you must register in advance and buy a ticket at $20 a person.
12:30 to 3 p.m.
Terp Family Festival and Tailgate
Get ready for the Terps to take on the Washington Huskies with a tailgate full of activities and great food.
Pack a picnic or pre-purchase tickets to the barbecue buffet, and enjoy a live DJ, face painting, henna art, balloon animals and a visit from Testudo on McKeldin Mall. A cashless bar will also be available for parents.
12:30 to 2 p.m.
Insect Petting Zoo
Not a football person? Check out the insect petting zoo instead.
Students and their families can visit with more than 100 insect species while learning biodiversity. Featured insects will include mantises, isopods, millipedes and tarantulas at the event on McKeldin Mall.
7 to 9 p.m.
Monsters University and bingo
If you’re looking for a movie night that’s a little more light-hearted, pick up a bingo sheet at the Hoff Theater in Stamp Student Union for a family-friendly night of competition. Popcorn and drinks will be available, and bingo winners will get special prizes at the end of the night.
Sunday, Oct. 5
10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.
20th Annual Gospel Brunch
One of the most highly anticipated annual events of Family Weekend is back this year, in partnership with the Washington Performing Arts Men & Women of the Gospel Choir.
A brunch buffet is available with about $49 tickets for adults and university students, or about $17 for those 9 years old or younger. The buffet will be available before and during the performance, which promises a combination of traditional and contemporary Gospel music.
Seating and brunch starts at 10:30 a.m., while the performance will begin at 11 a.m.
