If this is your very first Parents Weekend at college, you might not know what to expect. As a mom who has gone through it with both a freshman and a junior, let me tell you—it’s a mix of school pride, family bonding, and a little bit of chaos.
Every campus does it differently, but there are a few traditions you can almost always count on. Here are seven things you can expect, plus a few insider Parents Weekend college tips to make your trip even better.
1. A Packed Schedule of Events
Parents Weekend is like homecoming, but with families. You’ll probably have a lineup of campus tours, lectures, and activities to choose from. Don’t feel like you need to do everything. Pick a few highlights, then leave room for downtime with your student. Trust me, you’ll want those relaxed moments too.
2. Campus Sports Games
Whether your student is at a big sports school or a smaller campus, chances are there’s a game happening. Football, soccer, or even volleyball… grab tickets early if it’s a popular one. The energy in the stands is contagious, and your student will love showing you their school spirit.
Bonus: it’s one of the easiest ways to feel like part of the community.
3. Free (and Almost Free) College Gear
Parents Weekend is prime time for freebies. Think t-shirts, tote bags, or water bottles with the school logo. But even if you don’t snag free swag, campus bookstores usually run specials that weekend. Stock up on hoodies, hats, and gear because you’ll wear them with pride long after the weekend ends.
4. Shared Meals on Campus
One of the best parts? Eating with your student in their world. Many schools host ticketed Parents Weekend dinners or brunches, but don’t overlook the casual options. Grabbing a meal in the dining hall might sound simple, but your student will love introducing you to their go-to spots (and you’ll finally see what they’ve been eating every day).
5. Entertainment for the Whole Family
From comedy shows to concerts, circus acts to theater performances, schools pull out all the stops. Some are ticketed, some are free, and all are fun.
Pro tip: check the schedule as soon as it’s released. The best events sell out fast.
6. A Peek Into Campus Life
Parents Weekend is the perfect time to walk through the library, peek into classrooms, or stroll through the student union. You’ll get a better sense of your child’s everyday life, and they’ll enjoy giving you the “grand tour” themselves. Don’t forget to snap a few photos—you’ll treasure them later.
7. Quality Time With Your Student
At the end of the day, Parents Weekend is about connection. You’re not just there for the sports, the swag, or the shows. You’re there to see your child in their new world. Whether it’s late-night ice cream, coffee runs, or just hanging in their dorm lounge, those little moments matter most.
Final Thoughts: Parents Weekend College Tips
If you’re gearing up for your first Parents Weekend, remember this: you don’t have to over-plan. Show up, be present, and soak it all in. These weekends fly by, and before you know it, you’ll be back home wishing you had just one more meal together in that crowded dining hall.
So grab your spirit gear, cheer at a game, laugh at a comedy show, and enjoy every second of seeing your student thrive. Parents Weekend is a memory-maker—and now you know exactly what to expect.