October 3-5, 2025
We look forward to seeing you on campus October 3-5, 2025 for an action-packed weekend of events to enjoy with your family. Family Weekend is held each fall to give families the opportunity to spend time with their student, experience life at UC, and explore our city of Cincinnati. We have activities for all ages from 0 to 100!
Family Weekend 2025 is sold out. If you are not registered, there are opportunities for your family to be a part of campus celebrations during Family Weekend. View our abbreviated schedule of events that you and your family can attend without being registered. Note: Events that are not included on this schedule require you to be registered and wear your Family Weekend name badge to attend.
Please thoroughly review the information on this page below to ensure your family has what you need for a successful Family Weekend experience.
Check-in will be held at the Family Weekend Hub, located just off UC MainStreet in the new Parent & Family Programs Office in Steger Student Life Center, Suite 455.
There are several options for your family to get checked-in for the weekend's festivities.
Family Weekend registration ($15 per person) is now sold out as the event has reached capacity. Each guest attending Family Weekend will need to be registered, including your student. Registered families receive passes to attend all of our events except add-on events, football tickets, parking vouchers, and events marked with an asterisk (*) on the schedule. Those events require an additional fee or ticket purchase. All sales are final and we are unable to process late registrations, so please register early! All add-on events (Bearcats Canvas and Riverboat Cruise) require that guests are also registered for Family Weekend. No physical ticket is needed. We will have a list of registrants at the door.
Following completion of your registration, you received a confirmation email with a link to purchase $15 parking vouchers directly through UC Parking Services. Once purchased, you received a unique QR code in your parking confirmation email, which will allow you to enter and exit the Eden or Kingsgate garages throughout the weekend. Hover your QR code under the red scanner upon entry and exit. Vehicles may be left in the garage all weekend long. The permit expires Sunday at 11:59pm.
The Eden and Kingsgate garages are both located on East Campus about 1/2 mile walk from West Campus. Our free parking shuttle will run in a loop between the designated garages (on East Campus) and Dabney Hall (on West Campus) on Friday (12-10pm) and Saturday (8am-10pm). Parking vouchers must be purchased online and cannot be purchased at Check-In.
Need ADA Parking? Please contact UC Parking Services directly at 513-556-2283 or parking@uc.edu to purchase ADA parking, in advance of Family Weekend.
Family Weekend events range from sporting events, musical entertainment, arts and crafts, Cincinnati attractions, and more. Most events are included as a part of your Family Weekend registration. Add-on events and other activities marked with an asterisk (*) require a separate fee or advance ticket purchase. All events are subject to changes as we finalize plans for this fall. We look forward to welcoming you and your family to campus!
Win big with our digital Family Weekend Scavenger Hunt! Play all weekend to get the highest score! Download the Goosechase app! Log in or create an account. Enter your Experience join code: DF8S3U. Then, join as a guest or register as a user and you’re on your way! Complete missions to earn points! The top scoring teams receive prizes! The top 3 teams will receive the Grand Prize of an autographed UC football. The top 25 teams will receive a gift pack of assorted Bearcats swag!
Registered families can show their nametag and photo ID for access to the Campus Recreation Center's (CRC) facilities, including the track, cardio and weight equipment, group fitness classes, swimming pools, climbing wall, and more! Don't miss the lazy river! Guests will have to sign a waiver. If any family members are under 18 years old, please review our Minors Policy for facility expectations listed under the “general facility rules & regulations” section. Note: Children under 14 years old are not allowed on the second floor or in Quick Fit areas of the CRC. Interested in joining for a group fitness class? Check out the schedule and sign-up on the app for classes throughout Family Weekend!
Visit UC's dining centers listed above for the discounted rate ($7.99 per person) or use your student's guest meal swipes.
Students can show their UC ID for 15% off, so stock up on UC gear and goodies! Note: the UC Bookstore is inside of the game day perimeter and is not accessible during the football game unless you are attending the game.
Over 15 RecRe lockers across campus and in residence halls are stocked with outdoor activities and games your family can enjoy during your time on campus. The 3rd Floor TUC locker has disc golf discs available, which can be used at the nearby Burnet Woods 18-hole disc golf course. Simply scan the QR code on the set of lockers containing the item you want to rent. On your first use, you'll need to create an account, but after that, it’s simple! Just scan and go.
The QR code for the Self-Guided Audio Tour can be found outside the DAAP Student Affairs Office (Aronoff 5470). The programs within DAAP are ranked among the very best in both a world and national class. During the self-guided tour, you’ll see some of our labs, studios, and other spaces that help make DAAP a top-notch place to study. All you need is a smart phone to scan the QR code to begin the tour of DAAP’s facilities. Log onto the university guest wi-fi. Headphones are recommended.
In 2020, the University of Cincinnati’s Art Collection, Galleries, and Museum Studies program were unified under one umbrella - the UC Art Collection (UCAC) – with the goal of making the UCAC more accessible for teaching, research, and immersive learning. Nearly three years of planning, documentation, research, editing, and design produced a book that brings to life the richness and depth of the university's art collection. This exhibition features selected works from the publication of the same name, highlighting both the quality and breadth of UC's art collection.
This collection of 360-degree photographs by the Ohio photographer Thomas R. Schiff came from a collaboration between the Ohio History Connection and the Westcott Center for Architecture + Design to honor Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959) and his architecture throughout Ohio. First exhibited at the Springfield Museum of Art, the body of work was accompanied by a book with essays written by Burt Logan, Tomas Schiff, Aaron Betsky, Chuck Lohre, and Marta Wojcik.
Join student leaders, faculty, and staff from Warren Bennis Leadership Institute to learn how your student can get involved, develop leadership skills, and enhance career readiness. Refreshments will be served and Leadership Institute branded gifts for students.
Enjoy free professional headshots, light snacks, and our interactive “Picture Your Future Wall.” Families can also pick up quick tips on supporting their Bearcat’s career journey. Whether you’re curious about co-ops, career coaching, or just want a great photo, we’d love to meet you and share how the Career Studio helps students prepare for their future.
Join UC Athletics, RallyCats, and the Bearcat Bands on UC MainStreet for Bearcat Friday! Get hyped for Saturday's game!
CECH families, start your Family Weekend with Dean Lisa Huffman! Stop by anytime between 12-1:30pm for lunch with the dean. Please RSVP here in advance.
Check in to receive your Family Weekend materials and badges to access events. If you're one of the first 5,000 to check-in, you will also receive our 2025 Family Weekend t-shirt! Look for the signs on UC MainStreet to find your way to Check-in!
Gather with UC Blue Ash students, families, faculty, and staff to explore our beautiful campus. Check out our newly-renovated student spaces and participate in the ice cream social. Families of UC Blue Ash students can kick-off their weekend experience here before heading to the Uptown campus to check-in for Family Weekend.
Join the dean, faculty, staff, and students for light refreshments, nursing and virtual reality simulations, hand-washing stations, and more! If you are coming from the Kingsgate or Eden parking garages, you do not need to check-in for Family Weekend prior to attending this event.
Fantastic Philly flavors from the East meet sweet and smoky flavors from the West in a contest to see whose offer holds up best on Family Weekend. Get a front row seat to see Chef Joe Lutz bring his craveable philly cheesesteak to life and Chef Anthony Hustad will show the magic of what slow and low cooking can do to a brisket. Don't miss out on this exciting event with our campus chefs!
Drop-in to see the nationally recognized Oesper Collections in the History of Chemistry, one of the world's largest curated collections of scientific artifacts, books, journals, photos, and prints related to the history of chemistry. On display, you’ll find an exhibit highlighting trailblazing women in chemistry, a period room of an 1890s chemist’s lab, rare books dating back to the 16th century, and unique treasures like our portrait of Marie Curie signed to the students of the University of Cincinnati. Librarians will be available to discuss the collection. Enter Rieveschl (6th floor) from the Zimmer Rooftop on the side nearest Old Chem and take the stairs down one floor to the 5th floor and you will be right by the entrance to the Oesper Collections.
Test your skills with fun lawn games, including cornhole, and get in some practice before it really counts when you tailgate on Saturday.
Stop by to connect with the UC Alumni Association. Learn about upcoming events and pick up some Bearcats swag, while supplies last.
Soul Palette art coaches will guide you in creating your UC-themed canvas masterpiece! Advance ticket purchase required.
Show your student some love with a personalized mini care package! Family members are invited to stop by to write a heartfelt message and build a bag filled with tasty snacks, a refreshing drink, and a fun surprise giveaway while supplies last - perfect for brightening your student's day and sending a little comfort from home.
Join us in a game of Twister on the Climbing Wall. Open climbing options also available. Note: Children must be at least 5 years old and able to fit into a climbing harness to climb. Guests will have to sign a waiver. If any family members are under 18 years old, please review our Minors Policy for facility expectations listed under the “general facility rules & regulations” section.
Back by popular demand! Stop by for hands-on family fun! Enjoy crafts, coloring, and games, plus the chance to create your own custom UC button and UC sticker to take home as a souvenir.
This event is limited to students in TAP and their families.
Bring the whole crew and come clown around with us! From inflatables that will have the kids leaping with laughter, to jugglers who keep the excitement in the air, there’s entertainment (and free swag) around every corner.
Parents, family, friends, and other supporters of commuting Bearcats are invited to the Commuter Student Lounge to get to know other commuting students and their families, resources, and ways you can continue to encourage and empower your commuting student.
Create your own personal collage card with a certified SoulCollage® instructor from UC's Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS). Make collage cards by arranging self-selected images to represent aspects of yourself and your life. Access your intuition and imagination by entering into a Gestalt process, dialoguing with a card, using your own voice to discover the your card's narrative and meaning. When complete, you will have a beautiful collage card to display and be inspired.
Lace up your shoes for the 1st Annual 0.05K Bearcat Bolt! Beat the Bearcat in a dash down UC MainStreet in this new blink-and-you'll-miss-it event! The first 300 finishers will receive a 0.05k sticker to commemorate participating in the least athletic event taking place on campus all weekend!
WIN BIG with Bearcats Bingo! Be first to get five in a row to win prizes! Don't miss this out of this popular event hosted by the Center for Student Involvement (CSI). Limited to the first 500 guests.
Join in on the fun at the Intramural Canoe Battleship Tournament where teams battle it out, using only water buckets to sink their opponents’ canoes and claim the title of champion! Audience participation may be allowed if space permits, so come ready to join the fun.
Soul Palette art coaches will guide you in creating your UC-themed canvas masterpiece! Advance ticket purchase required.
Join us for a dessert bar and meet and greet with UC's Provost John Weidner, PhD, and Vice Provost for Student Affairs Nicole Mayo, EdD. If you're heading to our evening events, feel free to grab some treats before you head over!
It will take every generation of the family to win this trivia game! Team Tune Trivia presents trivia across the decades (80s, 90s, 00s, 10s, and today)! May the most musical family win!
Challenge your family to a little friendly competition with family game night. Take on your student or find a fellow Bearcat family to square off in your favorite family board games!
Cheer on Women's Volleyball as they take on the Kansas State University Wildcats in Fifth Third Arena! Grab your tickets today!
It's October 3 (Mean Girls Day). Get in, we’re going to movie night - featuring "Mean Girls" and games with prizes that are so fetch. Wear pink, bring your best Regina George energy, and prepare for a night that’s anything but average.
Anton Bruckner channels Bach and sacred church music for inspiration in his mighty Fifth Symphony, which explores themes of struggle, redemption and spiritual transcendence. Often called Bruckner’s most “architectural” work, the symphony culminates in a complex finale that combines elements of sonata, soaring brass chorales and fugue, drawing on themes from all four movements. Discounted tickets available for Family Weekend! Use code "Friends&Fam" when purchasing.
Soul Palette art coaches will guide you in creating your UC-themed canvas masterpiece! Advance ticket purchase required.
It will take every generation of the family to win this trivia game! Team Tune Trivia presents trivia across the decades (80s, 90s, 00s, 10s, and today)! May the most musical family win!
Marriage is an inevitable fact of life for the five Bennet sisters — Jane, Elizabeth, Mary, Kitty, and Lydia. With the family estate passing to their closest male cousin, their only hope to advance in life is to find a rich and single man — and one has just arrived in the form of the very handsome and very well-off Charles Bingley. The kindhearted and beautiful Jane seems poised to make a match, but must contend with her overly zealous mother, his snobbish sister and a slippery social ladder. When Bingley's taciturn friend Fitzwilliam Darcy shows an interest in the opinionated and spirited Elizabeth, the situation becomes more complicated than either of them expect. The fire and wit of Jane Austen's classic 1813 romance shines through in this vibrant new adaptation. Discounted tickets available for Family Weekend! Use code "Friends&Fam" when purchasing.
The QR code for the Self-Guided Audio Tour can be found outside the DAAP Student Affairs Office (Aronoff 5470). The programs within DAAP are ranked among the very best in both a world and national class. During the self-guided tour, you’ll see some of our labs, studios, and other spaces that help make DAAP a top-notch place to study. All you need is a smart phone to scan the QR code to begin the tour of DAAP’s facilities. Log onto the university guest wi-fi. Headphones are recommended.
At this ticketed tailgate for the whole family, enjoy food from City BBQ. The menu includes pulled pork, pulled chicken, with 'Bama sauce, green beans with bacon, macaroni and cheese, and housemade banana pudding. Your ticket includes food and one drink ticket redeemable for one beer, glass of wine, or soft drink. Additional drinks available for purchase at the cash bar. This event is hosted by RevelXP in partnership with UC Athletics.
Check out UC's brand-new, free tailgating option open to all fans. Food and drink available for purchase.
Check out UC's "GRID" tailgate music, marching band, the CATwalk, food for purchase, and more prior to kickoff.
JCelebrate Family Weekend at the University of Cincinnati by giving back to the vibrant Uptown community! Join the Center for Community Engagement and fellow Bearcat families for a hands-on service project that brings art, connection, and pride to the neighborhood. This year’s project is to install a chain-link fence mural in the heart of the historic Short Vine business district. Together, we’ll transform a functional space into a colorful landmark that reflects the spirit of UC and enhances the experience for residents, students, and visitors alike. Students can even earn an EXTRA hour of community service when you join them in participating. All materials will be provided. We encourage you to dress for the weather and bring a water bottle. Sign up to participate!
Join the College of Engineering and Applied Science (CEAS) and CEAS Tribunal for an open house and engineering organization showcase on Saturday morning! (The specific time will be announced once the football game time is announced.) Meet CEAS leadership! Talk to faculty, staff, and students about their CEAS experience and learn how you can make the most of your time at UC. Visit the student organization showcase to explore engineering organizations and how to get involved as an engineering Bearcat!
Check in to receive your Family Weekend materials and badges to access events. If you're one of the first 5,000 to check-in, you will also receive our 2025 Family Weekend t-shirt! Look for the signs on UC MainStreet to find your way to Check-in!
Graduate students, and their families and friends are invited to join the Graduate College at Van Wormer Hall to celebrate Family Weekend with games, music, and food! While you're here, you can take the opportunity to mingle, network, and learn more about relevant offices around campus and new interim Graduate Dean Dr. Ryan White. We are excited to celebrate the entire Graduate College family! All graduate students (and their guests) are invited, so be sure to include them on your RSVP! Graduate students who RSVP by 9/20 will be entered to win 4 tickets to a future UC home football game.
Join us to enjoy some of Cincinnati's favorite donuts and coffee while you hang out with Dean of Students Shaka Sydnor and the team from UC's Dean of Students Office. The DOS team serves as the primary student advocates for our campus and delivers timely support through a variety of programs, including crisis management, conflict resolution, and emergency response.
Back by popular demand! Screenprint your own patch! Readymade designs and prepped fabric will be available in the DAAP Printmaking Lab (Wolfson 6335) for a quick, easy way to decorate your bags, jackets, and jeans. Participants will walk away with a complete patch of their choosing ready to be sewn at home!
This event is limited to students in TAP and their families.
Families are invited to savor the magic of morning flavors with brunch-inspired offerings throughout the day. Enjoy elevated breakfast favorites and refreshing “mock-mosas” as part of the Family Weekend celebration.
In 2020, the University of Cincinnati’s Art Collection, Galleries, and Museum Studies program were unified under one umbrella - the UC Art Collection (UCAC) – with the goal of making the UCAC more accessible for teaching, research, and immersive learning. Nearly three years of planning, documentation, research, editing, and design produced a book that brings to life the richness and depth of the university's art collection. This exhibition features selected works from the publication of the same name, highlighting both the quality and breadth of UC's art collection.
This collection of 360-degree photographs by the Ohio photographer Thomas R. Schiff came from a collaboration between the Ohio History Connection and the Westcott Center for Architecture + Design to honor Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959) and his architecture throughout Ohio. First exhibited at the Springfield Museum of Art, the body of work was accompanied by a book with essays written by Burt Logan, Tomas Schiff, Aaron Betsky, Chuck Lohre, and Marta Wojcik.
Calling all Swifties! Come vibe with us at the ultimate "Life of a Showgirl" listening party as we stream her newest album, make friendship bracelets (because obviously), and create fun fan mail we’re sending straight to Taylor herself. She is now part of the Bearcat family, after all. Snap pics in front of dreamy backdrops, win Taylor-themed prizes, and celebrate this era together in true Swiftie style—because we never go out of style! This event is co-hosted by Parent & Family Programs and the Cincy (Taylor's Version) student organization.
Visit our beautiful C.A.T.S. Lounge in Steger Student Life Center (7th floor). Hang out during the game, grab some fun Cincinnati-themed snacks, and get to know our staff. The Lounge looks into Nippert Stadium, so stop by for some food and a peek at the game day excitement!
Cheer on the Bearcats as they take on Iowa State Cyclones! Tickets are sold out.
Marriage is an inevitable fact of life for the five Bennet sisters — Jane, Elizabeth, Mary, Kitty, and Lydia. With the family estate passing to their closest male cousin, their only hope to advance in life is to find a rich and single man — and one has just arrived in the form of the very handsome and very well-off Charles Bingley. The kindhearted and beautiful Jane seems poised to make a match, but must contend with her overly zealous mother, his snobbish sister and a slippery social ladder. When Bingley's taciturn friend Fitzwilliam Darcy shows an interest in the opinionated and spirited Elizabeth, the situation becomes more complicated than either of them expect. The fire and wit of Jane Austen's classic 1813 romance shines through in this vibrant new adaptation. Discounted tickets available for Family Weekend! Use code "Friends&Fam" when purchasing.
Join us in a game of Twister on the Climbing Wall. Open climbing options also available. Note: Children must be at least 5 years old and able to fit into a climbing harness to climb. Guests will have to sign a waiver. If any family members are under 18 years old, please review our Minors Policy for facility expectations listed under the “general facility rules & regulations” section.
Join us for Family Fun Fest! We have activities for the whole family to celebrate your time together, including crafts (string nail art, cookie decorating, airbrushed hats, and more), inflatable games, casino games, caricatures, balloon animals, and tasty treats. This event is co-sponsored with Resident Education & Development.
Back by popular demand! Chill out with College of Arts & Sciences Dean and chemist James Mack, PhD, as he demonstrates how to make ice cream using chemistry! Several audience members will get the chance to taste his recipe. Following the demonstration, Cincinnati favorite Graeters Ice Cream will be shared while supplies last. Students and families from all colleges are welcome.
Prepare to be amazed! Join us for a captivating magician performance - perfect for all ages and guaranteed to leave you wondering, “How did they do that?” Bring the whole family for an unforgettable evening of mind-blowing magic! The first 200 guests will receive their own Family Weekend deck of cards so you can begin to practice your own magic tricks!
Come little children and join us under the moonlight for a spellbinding outdoor movie night! Grab your broomsticks, bring a blanket or chair (if you want a real seat), and enjoy wickedly delicious tricks and treats from Al's Delicious Popcorn, while supplies last, because we're screening "Hocus Pocus." Play "Hocus Pocus" bingo to win movie-themed prizes! The first 200 families will receive a Family Weekend blanket. This event is co-sponsored with UC Housing.
Marriage is an inevitable fact of life for the five Bennet sisters — Jane, Elizabeth, Mary, Kitty, and Lydia. With the family estate passing to their closest male cousin, their only hope to advance in life is to find a rich and single man — and one has just arrived in the form of the very handsome and very well-off Charles Bingley. The kindhearted and beautiful Jane seems poised to make a match, but must contend with her overly zealous mother, his snobbish sister and a slippery social ladder. When Bingley's taciturn friend Fitzwilliam Darcy shows an interest in the opinionated and spirited Elizabeth, the situation becomes more complicated than either of them expect. The fire and wit of Jane Austen's classic 1813 romance shines through in this vibrant new adaptation. Discounted tickets available for Family Weekend! Use code "Friends&Fam" when purchasing.
The QR code for the Self-Guided Audio Tour can be found outside the DAAP Student Affairs Office (Aronoff 5470). The programs within DAAP are ranked among the very best in both a world and national class. During the self-guided tour, you’ll see some of our labs, studios, and other spaces that help make DAAP a top-notch place to study. All you need is a smart phone to scan the QR code to begin the tour of DAAP’s facilities. Log onto the university guest wi-fi. Headphones are recommended.
A Family Weekend tradition! Join us for live jazz, brunch, and breathtaking city views from the River Queen! Advance ticket purchase required. Riverboat guests will not receive tickets. Arrive at BB Riverboats from 10-11am to board. The boat sails at 11am, so do not be late. We will return by 1pm.
In 2020, the University of Cincinnati’s Art Collection, Galleries, and Museum Studies program were unified under one umbrella - the UC Art Collection (UCAC) – with the goal of making the UCAC more accessible for teaching, research, and immersive learning. Nearly three years of planning, documentation, research, editing, and design produced a book that brings to life the richness and depth of the university's art collection. This exhibition features selected works from the publication of the same name, highlighting both the quality and breadth of UC's art collection.
This collection of 360-degree photographs by the Ohio photographer Thomas R. Schiff came from a collaboration between the Ohio History Connection and the Westcott Center for Architecture + Design to honor Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959) and his architecture throughout Ohio. First exhibited at the Springfield Museum of Art, the body of work was accompanied by a book with essays written by Burt Logan, Tomas Schiff, Aaron Betsky, Chuck Lohre, and Marta Wojcik.
Cheer on UC Soccer as they take on the University of Arizona Wildcats. The "Pink Game" celebrates breast cancer awareness.
Families of students in the Gen-1 program and Chaudry Scholars program are invited to celebrate as students are officially inducted into the program with their cohort.
Join us in a game of Twister on the Climbing Wall. Open climbing options also available. Note: Children must be at least 5 years old and able to fit into a climbing harness to climb. Guests will have to sign a waiver. If any family members are under 18 years old, please review our Minors Policy for facility expectations listed under the “general facility rules & regulations” section.
Challenge your family to a round of disc golf (up to 18 holes) at Burnet Woods. If you don't have your own discs, you can rent them from the RecRe locker in TUC!
Visit the award-winning Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden during your visit for a discounted rate. Purchase tickets using code "UCFamily" to receive $5.00 off adult admission and $2.00 off child and senior admission.
Light up your Friday nights with Glimpse at the Porch in Washington Park, a free event where dynamic light projections transform the Sherwin-Williams Porch into a stunning after-dark experience. Catch the show, enjoy live music and soak in the creative spark that lights up the city. A must-see fall experience for all ages!
Jammin’ on the Square is a free, high-energy Friday night concert series featuring the best local and regional jam bands. From rock & roll to blues, cover bands to improv-heavy sets, each week brings a new sound and an electric vibe to Fountain Square. It’s the perfect way to start your weekend in Cincinnati!
Spend your Saturday nights soaking in the smooth vibes at Fountain of Soul, a free, R&B and Neo Soul music series at Fountain Square every Saturday. Featuring live performances from some of the region’s most soulful artists, this event brings rich vocals, heartfelt grooves and feel-good energy to the heart of downtown Cincinnati.
Cheer on the Bengals as they play the Detroit Lions in Paycor Stadium. Paycor Stadium, known as The Jungle, is located along the riverfront in downtown Cincinnati and is one of the best places to watch a football game. Visit their website to purchase tickets.
December 23, 2025
Innovative startup ventures TapIn and Saturn Sports rose from the UC Venture Lab to receive $200,000 each in funding through Ohio Third Frontier grants.
December 23, 2025
Susan Newell, assistant professor in the UC College of Nursing, is being recognized by the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) as one of three top educational administrators and instructors. She will receive the Clinical Instructor of the Year Award during AANA's top educator event 2026 EDGE Conference, February 4-7 in Louisville, Kentucky.
December 22, 2025
Supporters gave generously to the Bearcats Pantry and Resource at the University of Cincinnati during two fundraisers: the Crosstown Foodout and Giving Tuesday.
