Mark Your Calendars!: Family Weekend 2019
As our new and returning Eagles are spreading their wings and settling in to college life, Family Weekend brings a welcome dose of home to campus. On October 4-6, families and students will converge to take part in a variety of planned events, both at UMW and in surrounding Downtown Fredericksburg.
This annual fall weekend at the University of Mary Washington is in its 46th year, bringing together family members and friends to campus to experience a slice of student life.
The weekend kicks off on Friday evening with two great, yet decidedly different events. The Capitol Steps has been a popular mainstay during past Family Weekends, and the politically-charged satire group is back this year for a performance in Dodd Auditorium, starting at 7:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2019-stafford-rotary-capitol-steps-tickets-68830579115
In the center of campus, Rocktoberfest will be taking place on Ball Circle between 6-8:30 p.m. Listen to live music while grabbing a bite to eat or enjoying some outdoor games.
On Saturday, there are a variety of ways to spend the day on our beautiful campus.
Described as one of America’s most historic houses, Brompton is famous for being at the center of the Battle of Fredericksburg in 1862 and for serving as a Union hospital during the Battle of the Wilderness in 1864. It is now the official residence of the University president. Tours of Brompton will run from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Continue exploring the rich history of the area with Civil War Walking Tours sponsored by the UMW Historic Preservation Club. Students will lead groups around UMW’s Civil War sites every 30 minutes starting at 11:00 a.m. and ending at 2:30 p.m. Find their table on Ball Circle to sign-up for this informative $5 tour.
Looking to expand your student’s cultural horizons? Check out the UMW Study Abroad Fair in Chandler Ballroom beginning at 10 a.m. to explore the many educational opportunities available across the globe.
A complimentary trolley starting at the UMW Bell Tower extends your visit to the Downtown area where there are multiple activities to enjoy. The Annual Welsh Festival will be holding its last festival after 30 years of celebration. Festivities will take place at the James Monroe Museum which will also be open to the public, free of charge. Music, dancing, arts & crafts, and more will honor the rich history of the Welsh!
There is a host of other notable events worth checking out – a Virginia Politics discussion with Dr. Stephen Farnsworth, the Chemistry Department Magic Show, UMW Athletic games, and tours & demonstrations at Simpson Library, to name a few. Please check out a full listing of events at www.umw.edu/familyweekend.
However you decide to spend your time on campus, relish these moments with loved ones as these college years fly by! UMW welcomes you to a memorable, fun-filled weekend.
Marissa DiMeo, University Events & Conferencing