EIU Media Relations

University Newsletter

2023 Family Weekend Schedule of Events

We are excited to welcome everyone to campus for a weekend of great events for Family Weekend, but most importantly -- to spend 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 can 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! 

2023 Schedule of Events 

Friday, September 22

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.  

Saturday, September 23

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. Please RSVP here.

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.

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

Weekend Opportunities

Java B&B, MLK Jr. Union
Friday: 7:30 am - 5 pm
Saturday: 7:30 am - 1pm

University Bookstore, MLK Jr. Union
Friday: 8 am - 7 pm
Saturday: 8 am - 4 pm

Fall Harvest Frolic Celebration
Celebrate the arrival of autumn at the Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site. Visit lincolnlogcabin.org for directions and details.