Family Weekend 2025: Oct. 31-Nov. 1
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We are excited to welcome you and your family to campus for a weekend of outstanding 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!
2025 Family Weekend T-Shirts
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Shirts can be picked up at Family Weekend check-in on Friday, Oct. 31 from 3-7 p.m., or on Saturday, Nov. 1 from 8:30 a.m.-12p.m. If you are unable to pick up your shirt during that time, they can be picked up from New Student & Family Programs in McAfee 1302 beginning Monday, November 3. |
2025 Schedule
We are continuing to add to the schedule. Check back for the full schedule!
Friday, October 31
Bookstore Lobby, MLK Jr. University Union
Gardella Family Court, McAfee Gymnasium
Greek Court
Join Eastern Illinois University’s Fraternity and Sorority Life for Greeks-n-Treats, a festive community gathering during Family Weekend and Halloween. This family-friendly event brings together students, families, alumni, and community members to celebrate the vibrant fraternity and sorority community at EIU.
Whether you are meeting your student’s chapter, reconnecting with Family Weekend events, or simply enjoying a fun fall afternoon, Greeks-n-Treats offers something for everyone. Costumes are encouraged, and sweet treats will be available!
MLK Jr. University Union, Grand Ballroom
Family Bingo is the ultimate EIU experience of family fun! The event will include lots of family fun featuring a photo booth, mocktails, snacks, and great prizes! So clear your Bingo cards, it is Family Weekend Bingo like never before!
EIU Lanes, MLK Jr. University Union
Come on down to the EIU Bowling Center to enjoy a few games of bowling with your family! You'll love our low-cost concession stand, friendly staff, and billiards options!
Come on down to the EIU Bowling Center to enjoy a few games of bowling with your family! You'll love our low-cost concession stand, friendly staff, and billiards options!
Join Physics professor Dr. Robert Strausbaugh for an evening of stargazing at the EIU Observatory. Peek through a telescope to catch a glimpse of Saturn, the Moon, and hopefully Neptune, Uranus, Ceres, and the Pleiades. You can park in the University W lot off of 4th Street and walk to the observatory. Weather permitting.
Pemberton Hall, North Quad
Are you ready to face your fears? Join us for the Pemberton Hall haunted house during Family Weekend! Step inside our eerie halls- where every corner hides a chilling surprise. After that, brace yourself for the ultimate scare. Admission is just $3 for one ticket or $5 for two tickets. You can also enter by donating 2 cans of non-perishable food items- helping those in need while enjoying the thrills! Join us at the Pemberton Hall Haunted Hospital for a night of frightful fun- if you dare! We'll see you there... if you're brave enough! Cash only.
All proceeds will go to the EIU Campus Food Pantry.
All proceeds will go to the EIU Campus Food Pantry.
Saturday, November 1
Java Beanery and Bakery, MLK Jr. Union
For those who were unable to check in on Friday.
Grand Ballroom, MLK Jr. Union
Join us for a delicious morning at the EIU Family Weekend Pancake Breakfast! This special event offers families and students a chance to enjoy a hearty breakfast together while connecting with the university community. President Jay Gatrell will be in attendance, providing a unique opportunity to meet and chat with EIU's leader in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
Charleston/Mattoon Room, MLK Jr. Union
Learn about EIU's parent and family organization, how you can get involved, and vote on the new executive board.
Library Quad
Savor food from La Luna Mexican Grill Food Truck or the Mac Daddy Food Truck, then top off your meal with a delightful drink from Magoody's Mobile Coffee!
Library Quad
Capture lasting memories with your loved ones during EIU Family Weekend by taking a family photo in front of the iconic big EIU letters! This is the perfect opportunity to show off your Panther pride and commemorate your time together on campus. Gather the family, strike a pose, and snap the ultimate photo souvenir that you’ll cherish for years to come! Don’t miss this fun and festive photo-op.
Booth Library Steps
Join the Panther Marching Band approximately 75 minutes before kickoff as they perform both traditional music and selections for the halftime show.
Join the Panther Marching Band approximately 75 minutes before kickoff as they perform both traditional music and selections for the halftime show.
Marvin Foyer and West Reading Room, Booth Library
Join us at Booth Library to celebrate our 75th Birthday on campus! Make a Birthday card for the library, create a Booth Birthday Button, play a party game with Ms. Booth and enjoy a slice of birthday cake, while supplies last.
Join us at Booth Library to celebrate our 75th Birthday on campus! Make a Birthday card for the library, create a Booth Birthday Button, play a party game with Ms. Booth and enjoy a slice of birthday cake, while supplies last.
O'Brien Field
Please note: If you or a member of your party needs wheelchair accessible seating at the game, please call the EIU Ticket Office at 217-581-2106 PRIOR to purchasing your tickets!
Panther Football Tickets
More information coming soon!
MLK Jr. University Union
Description coming soon!
7pm-8pm: Kid-Friendly, 8pm-10pm: Get Scared
Bowling Lanes, MLK Jr. University Union
Description coming soon!
Other Weekend Opportunities
Booth Library
Booth Library will be open during their normal Saturday hours for families and guests who may need a quiet location to relax or decompress throughout the day.
