The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith will host its second annual Family Weekend Oct. 27-28 on the university campus, offering families of students an opportunity to experience the AV campus.
The event includes a chili cook-off, a welcome event featuring a hypnotist and a Lady Lions volleyball game. This year’s event will also coincide with Haunted Union, the university’s award-winning Halloween event, according to Stephanie London, director of student activities.
“We are excited to host our second annual Family Weekend this year at AV. This event truly gives the families of AV students an opportunity to see their student’s life on campus inside and outside of the classroom,” London said. “This year, we are adding our regional, award-winning program, Haunted Union to the lineup of events for families to enjoy a true campus tradition.”
Family Weekend was held for the first time last fall after the university’s Student Government Association voted to move Homecoming to the spring semester.
The schedule of events are:
Friday, Oct. 27
5:30-6:30 p.m.: Family Weekend check-in in the lobby of Windgate Art & Design, with a reception featuring the university’s five academic colleges.
6:30-8:30 p.m.: Welcome event in the Recreation and Wellness Center, including dinner and a welcome address from Chancellor Paul B. Beran. Hypnotist Keith Karkut will follow with an interactive show.
Saturday, Oct. 28
7 a.m.-noon: Attendees are encouraged to visit the Fort Smith Farmer’s Market located at the corner of N. 2nd Street and Garrison Ave. in downtown Fort Smith.
11 a.m.-1 p.m.: Family Weekend check-in and chili cook-off tailgate in the parking lot of Windgate Art & Design.
1 p.m.: Lady Lions volleyball game vs. Dallas Baptist. Free tickets are available to attendees who register by Oct. 16.
6-10 p.m.: Haunted Union in the Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center, featuring a free haunted house, children’s maze, carnival games and trunk or treat.
Additionally, attendees are encouraged to spend downtime during the weekend exploring restaurants and artwork in downtown Fort Smith.
For more information or to register for Family Weekend, visit .
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