We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including those with disabilities, to engage fully. To request accommodations or for inquiries about accessibility to a specific event, please contact familyweekend@colgate.edu with any questions.
Held each fall semester, Family Weekend gives students and their loved ones opportunities to spend quality time together while enjoying campus and community.
September 18-19, 2026
Most Family Weekend events take place on Friday evening and throughout Saturday. Sunday is a day that families use for casual visiting amongst themselves.
Family Weekend is free to attend, but we ask families to register, which typically opens early in the fall semester. Some specific events do have a charge.
President Barack Obama
44th President of the United States
September 18, at 6:30 p.m.
About President Obama's conversation
Ticketing information will be available as soon as possible.
Planning the Weekend
You may find the following resources helpful for planning your visit.
Accessibility Resources
Travel and Lodging
Those planning travel may find the following resources helpful:
Meals/Dining Information
On Campus
Family Weekend Dinner
Friday, 5:30–7 p.m.
Food Truck Lunch
Saturday, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Frank Dining Hall
Students get in with a meal plan swipe; guests pay at the door (no charge for guests of students on the Premier Meal Plan).
Off Campus
There are a variety of dining establishments in the area; be sure to make reservations ahead or call ahead for hours of operation and space availability. In addition, the local Price Chopper Super Center on Rt. 12B just north of campus offers grab-and-go meal solutions as well as catering.
Parking
Parking on campus during Family Weekend is open to anyone; however, parking is limited, on a first-come, first-served basis. Whenever possible, please walk or take advantage of the free Colgate Shuttle or walk. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.
Legal parking spots are marked with white lines. Parking on any roadway is prohibited. More information at Parking Guidelines.
In Hamilton, a limited number of parking spaces are available to Family Weekend guests in the Parry’s & Big Lots parking lot on Rt. 12B and the Eaton St. lot. The Colgate Shuttle will take you to campus.
Employees who wish to carpool to campus on Friday can connect through the Rideshare Program.
Electric Vehicle Charging Station
There is a charging station in the 113 Broad St. parking lot across from Huntington Gym available for use this weekend. See Campus Map for location.
Getting Around – Colgate Shuttle
The Colgate Shuttle — our free shuttle service — is open to guests and members of the public as well as students and employees for navigating the campus and the Hamilton business district. Visit the Shuttle webpage for specific stop times, routes, and policies.
Wireless Access on Campus
Guests on campus may connect to the Colgate-Guest Wi-Fi network for free.
Service Animals and Pets
Colgate welcomes the service animals of our guests. Service animals must remain under the control of their handler and not cause a disruption to any event.
Please note that, per University policy, pets and emotional support or comfort animals are not allowed in Colgate University buildings or tents, but are allowed in outdoor spaces.
Fitness and Recreation
Day passes to Colgate’s fitness and recreation facilities are available to guests during open hours.
Tailgating
Family members are welcome to tailgate as part of enjoying the athletics contests over Family Weekend.
Lost & Found
Visit Campus Safety at 88 Hamilton St., or call 315-228-7333 (non-emergency).
Scenes from Family Weekend
