Family Reunions Will Be Front and Center at Family Weekend 2026

(Photo by CoCo Boardman)

Family Reunions Will Be Front and Center at Family Weekend 2026

Families are headed to campus Oct. 16-18 for football, school and college programs, and time with their students.

Samantha Perkins Oct. 9, 2026

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Families, friends and supporters from all over the globe will be celebrating connections and football for Family Weekend 2026, Friday, Oct. 16 to Sunday, Oct. 18. Family Weekend has been a core tradition of Syracuse University dating back to the 1950s.

“Families are traveling from 44 U.S. states and territories and 10 countries to spend time with their student,” says Missy Mathis-Hanlon, director of Parent and Family Services. “We have plenty of programming available, but we know that each family’s primary focus is checking in with and spending time with their student.”

Family Weekend Highlights

Families and supporters can learn more about what it’s like to be part of the Orange community over the fun-filled weekend. Highlights for Family Weekend can be explored below. Families and students can also download the OrangeNow app or visit the Parent and Family Services webpage for more information.

Friday, Oct. 16, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.: Check-in begins at the Schine Student Center.
Friday, Oct. 16, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.: Experience the campus with a campus tour.
Saturday, Oct. 17, 9:30-11:30 a.m.: Attend your student’s school and college programs.
Saturday, Oct. 17, 7:30 p.m.: Orange Football vs. University of Louisville Cardinals.

While online registration is now closed, students can still register their families in person through Friday, Oct. 9, in 137 Schine Student Center.

Prioritizing Health Through Family Weekend and Beyond

While Family Weekend is a fun and exciting few days on campus, it’s also a great time for families to encourage their students to prioritize their health in the chillier months ahead, when flu season is at its peak.

“As students and families gather for Family Weekend, remember that flu season is here, and the best protection is an annual vaccine,” says Michele Frontale, supervising pharmacist for the Barnes Center at The Arch.

Flu vaccine clinics for students are scheduled on campus throughout October and November, including one during Family Weekend on Friday, Oct. 16, from 1-4 p.m. at 309 Barnes Center.

“Take a moment to encourage your student to book a flu vaccine appointment on the Patient Portal. Help them keep our whole campus community healthy!” says Frontale.