How to Maximize Your Homecoming and Family Weekend Experience
Experience the fun with family, friends, and alumni with everything ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓÆµ has to offer at Homecoming and Family weekend.

BRISTOL, R.I. – Each year, the Homecoming and Family Weekend Planning Committee spends countless hours planning the perfect weekend for Hawks to share their love for ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓÆµ with friends and family. From athletic matches to family-friendly games, performances, and other outdoor activities, there will be something for everyone at this cherished event. The weekend will also include a celebration of life for Paige Moreau, a member of the Class of 2026, who unexpectedly died earlier this year.
Homecoming and Family Weekend runs from Friday, Oct.17, to Sunday, Oct. 19. Here is a quick guide to help you through the weekend.
Honoring Paige, ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓÆµ Class of 2026
The university is bringing together the campus community and the Moreau family for a celebration of life for Paige Moreau, who was a member of the Class of 2026, an Architecture major in the Cummings School of Architecture, and deeply involved across our campus. That will be on Sunday, Oct. 19 at 11 a.m. in the Global Heritage Hall Atrium.
Traditions, Games and Performances
Casino Night
Friday, Oct. 17, 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Campus Recreation Center (Field House) – Have the excitement and feel of a real casino without worry about losing money. Sit down at one of the tables to play games like blackjack, roulette, and poker or you can watch the games play out from the sidelines. Don’t miss out on the exciting end-of-night raffle with a great selection of prizes.
Student Performances: The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) [revised] [again]
Friday, Oct. 17 & Saturday, Oct. 18, 7:30 p.m., Performing Arts Barn – Each year, ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓÆµâ€™s Theatre Program puts on the Main Season Fall performance. This year, they are taking on The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) [revised] [again]. This performance parodies Shakespeare’s plays by comically shortening them and is acted out with minimal actors. Tickets for this show can be reserved by contacting (401) 254-3666.
Autumn Picnic Lunch
Saturday, Oct. 18, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., in front of Marine and Natural Sciences Building – Take a seat around campus or bring a blanket to sit by the picturesque waterfront while you enjoy fall-themed foods at our annual Autumn Picnic Lunch prepared by our Bon Appetit Dining staff. Be sure to purchase your ticket .
Autumn Festival
Saturday, Oct. 18, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Campus Recreation Center (Patio) and Commons Quad – Head over to the autumn festival for a fun afternoon of carnival games, ax throwing, arts and crafts, and more. Sing and dance to live performances presented by ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓÆµ students while you snack on food from local vendors.
22nd Annual Captain’s Cup Regatta
Saturday, Oct. 18, Bready Sailing Center – Join alumni, family, and friends of ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓÆµ Sailing for the Annual Captain’s Cup Regatta. All the boats will be rigged by undergrads. The day includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and an awards ceremony at the Herreshoff Museum after racing. This is a and all proceeds will go towards sailing team enhancements.
Coffee and Conversation
Saturday, Oct. 18, 10 to 11 a.m., ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓÆµ Law (Roger’s Café) – Connect with the Parent and Family Leadership Council (PFLC) and the Division of Student Life at our Homecoming and Family Weekend Coffee Hour. This meeting allows you to ask questions about Student Life and learn more about these divisions that support different areas of campus.
Family-Friendly Fun
Family Bingo
Friday, Oct. 17, 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Campus Recreation Center (Upper Gym) – Bingo is a fan favorite tradition the whole family can enjoy! Take advantage of this fun activity for the chance to win prizes and participate in the end-of-night raffle.
Hawk-tober Fest
Saturday, Oct. 18, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., Lot C – Join us in enjoying autumn snacks and beverages. The event is 21+ and a , so be sure to purchase one and get a free drink and pretzel and celebrate with fellow Hawks.
Sports and Recreation
Homecoming 5K Road Race
Saturday, Oct. 18, 9:30 a.m. registration (10 a.m. start), in front of the Campus Recreation Center – Start your morning with the Cross Country team as they lead the Homecoming 5K Road Race! This race is on campus and is open to parents, students, alumni, faculty and staff. Waivers will be available to sign prior to racing.
Children’s 100-Yard Dash
Saturday, Oct. 18, 9:45 a.m., in front of the Campus Recreation Center – Prior to the 5K race, children 12 and under have the chance to compete for medals in our exciting 100-yard dash.
Athletic Matches
This weekend is filled with athletic matches featuring many of our talented sports teams such as Women and Men’s Lacrosse Alumni, Field Hockey Alumni, Tennis Alumni, Ultimate Frisbee Alumni, and Swimming & Diving Alumni among many others.
Check out the to see the complete schedule of all the athletics events.
Find the complete schedule of Homecoming and Family Weekend events taking place here.