September 22-23, 2023
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
We are excited to welcome you and your family to campus for a weekend of great events, but most importantly time together. This is a great opportunity for family to visit campus, engage in our campus and local communities, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Everyone in the family should plan to attend. We have something planned for all ages. Join us for the Panther Football Game, our Family Breakfast with the President and more!
Family Weekend Check-In
3 - 7 pm, EIU Bookstore Lobby, MLK Jr. Union
Family Bingo
7 - 10 pm, Grand Ballroom, MLK Jr. Union
Rock 'n' Bowl
7 - 10 pm, Bowling Lanes, MLK Jr. Union
Second City: Comedian Rhapsody
7:30 - 9:30 pm, Dvorak Concert Hall, Doudna Fine Arts Center
Are you looking for a fun night out? Come see the renowned Second City perform "Comedian Rhapsody" right here at EIU! The Second City is the premier brand in improv-based sketch comedy. Famous alums include Tina Fey, Steve Carell, Quinta Brunson, and Keegan Michael-Key. You can purchase tickets at doudnatix.com.
Family Weekend Check-In
8 am - 1 pm
EIU Bookstore Lobby, MLK Jr. Union
Family Breakfast with President Gatrell
9 - 11 am, Grand Ballroom, MLK Jr. Union
This is a free event. Reservations are required. Reservations have closed for this event.
Family and Friends Photo Shoot
11 am - 3 pm, Library Quad
Family Fun Fest!
11 am - 3 pm, Library Quad
Features creation stations, trackless train rides, and Kona Ice truck.
Families Belong at the Library!
1 - 4 pm, Booth Library
Booth Library will host several events for Panther Families including "Legos at the Library", "Family Pictures: Green Screen Style," and a chance to win Booth swag by collecting Booth Library trading cards as you follow along the Panther Path.
Tarble Family Day
1 - 4 pm, Tarble Arts Center
The Tarble Arts Center, the Coles County Art Council, and the EIU Art Education, Fashion Merchandising and Design programs invite you to bring the whole family for an afternoon filled with art and exploration for all ages.
EIU Panther Football vs. McNeese State
Kickoff: 2 p.m., O'Brien Stadium
To purchase tickets, please click here.
Celebrating Chosen Family
4pm-6pm, Center for Gender and Sexual Diversity, Stevenson Lower Level
Join us in honoring our GSD students and their families (chosen or otherwise) with board games, crafts, and snacks.
Rock ‘N’ Bowl
7 - 10 pm, Bowling Lanes, MLK Jr. Union
Magician Jason Hudy
8 pm, Grand Ballroom, MLK Jr. Union
Ice Cream Social: Make Your Own Sundaes
9 - 10 pm, Bridge Lounge, MLK Jr. Union
600 Lincoln Ave.
Charleston, IL 61920
(217) 581-6435
family@eiu.edu