Family Weekend

Held each fall semester, Family Weekend offers opportunities for students and their loved ones to spend quality time together enjoying campus and community.

October 31–November 2, 2025

Most Family Weekend events take place on Friday evening and throughout Saturday. Sunday is a day that families use for casual visiting amongst themselves.

There is no charge to attend Family Weekend, but we do ask families to register, which typically opens early in the fall semester. Some specific events do have a charge.

Faculty member lectures in a classroom — Attend classes

The Swinging Gates perform an a capella concert in Memorial Chapel — Concerts and exhibitions

A family eats and plays games together at a picnic table — Receptions and picnics

Fans of the Raiders in the stands at Andy Kerr Stadium — Sporting events

Two families greet one another and shake hands in downtown Hamilton — Explore Hamilton

Accessibility Resources

We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including those with disabilities, to engage fully. To request accommodation or for inquiries about accessibility to a specific event, please contact the specific organizer listed in the online calendar by Monday, October 7. Reach out to 315-228-4444 or familyweekend@colgate.edu with any questions.

Travel and Lodging

Meals/Dining Information

On Campus

Family Weekend Dinner, Oak Drive Tent

Friday, 5:30–7:30 p.m. | No charge for the meal; cash bar

Frank Dining Hall

Students get in with meal plan swipe; guests pay at the door (no charge for guests of students on the Premier Meal Plan).

Off Campus

There are a variety of dining establishments in the area; be sure to make reservations ahead or call ahead for hours of operation and space availability. In addition, the local Price Chopper Super Center on Rt. 12B just north of campus offers grab-and-go meal solutions as well as catering.

Parking

Parking on campus during Family Weekend is open to anyone; however, parking is limited, on a first-come, first-served basis. Whenever possible, please walk or take advantage of the free Colgate Shuttle or walk. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.

Legal parking spots are marked with white lines. Parking on any roadway is prohibited. More information at Parking Guidelines.

In Hamilton, a limited number of parking spaces are available to Family Weekend guests in the Parry’s & Big Lots parking lot on Rt. 12B and the Eaton St. lot. The Colgate Shuttle will take you to campus.

Employees who wish to carpool to campus on Friday can connect through the Rideshare Program.

Electric Vehicle Charging Station

Getting Around – Colgate Shuttle

Wireless Access on Campus

Service Animals and Pets

Colgate welcomes the service animals of our guests. Service animals must remain under the control of their handler and not cause a disruption to any event.

Please note that, per University policy, pets and emotional support or comfort animals are not allowed in Colgate University buildings or tents, but are allowed in outdoor spaces.

Fitness and Recreation

Tailgating

Lost & Found

Family Weekend

October 31–November 2, 2025

Typical Weekend Events

Planning the Weekend: Oct. 31 - Nov, 2, 2025
You may find the following resources helpful for planning your visit.

On Campus

Family Weekend Dinner, Oak Drive Tent

Frank Dining Hall

Off Campus

Family Weekend

Family Weekend

October 31–November 2, 2025

Typical Weekend Events

Planning the Weekend: Oct. 31 - Nov, 2, 2025 You may find the following resources helpful for planning your visit.

Planning the Weekend: Oct. 31 - Nov, 2, 2025
You may find the following resources helpful for planning your visit.