Events | First Generation | NewsSeptember 25, 2024

Family Weekend Slated Oct. 18-19

The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith invites students, families, and the Fort Smith community to experience the campus on Family Weekend, Oct. 18-19, 2024. This annual event offers two days packed with activities, games, and opportunities to engage with the UAFS community, allowing families to celebrate their students' achievements and experience campus life.

“Family Weekend is your exclusive opportunity to experience UAFS campus life, celebrate our students’ achievements, and create lasting memories—all while having a great time!” said Stephany Dobbins, New Student and Family Programs coordinator. “This weekend is more than just an event; it’s your invitation to become an active part of the UAFS community. From pumpkin painting and thrilling volleyball games to our traditional chili cookoff, we can’t wait to help you make new memories with your Lions!”

The festivities kick off on Friday, October 18, with a Welcome Reception at 4:30 p.m. in the Stubblefield Center’s Srygley Hospitality Room. Following the reception, attendees can show their Lion pride by cheering on the UAFS Lady Lions Volleyball Team as they take on the University of Nebraska at Kearney at 6 p.m.

The excitement continues on Saturday, Oct. 19, starting with the Monster Dash 5K, hosted by Kappa Sigma Fraternity, at 9 a.m. Participants are encouraged to dress in their favorite Halloween costumes for this family-friendly race, suitable for runners and walkers of all ages. To register for the Monster Dash 5K, visit Monster Dash 5K Registration.

Following the 5K families can head to the Echols Parking Lot for the Family Weekend Tailgate and Chili Cook-Off. The event will feature a live DJ, inflatables, door prizes, and fall foods.

Simultaneously, from 9 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., the Rev & Roar Rally Car Show, hosted by Sigma Nu Fraternity, will take place in the Windgate Parking Lot. Car enthusiasts can register their vehicles for $25 beginning at 8 a.m. on the day of the event. The award for Best in Show will be presented during the first timeout of the volleyball game.

The weekend’s main sporting event kicks off at 1 p.m., as the UAFS Lady Lions volleyball team faces off against Fort Hays State University in the Stubblefield Center. This match is particularly special as it will serve as the annual Pink Out Game, honoring those who have or are currently braving breast cancer. All cancer survivors attending the game will be honored, with survivors receiving a lavender ribbon. Prior to the game, a moment will be taken to recognize their courage and strength.

Additionally, UAFS is calling for nominations for the Family of the Year Award, created by the UAFS Student Government Association. The award celebrates families who have provided outstanding support to their UAFS students and will be presented during the second set of the volleyball game. Family of the Year Nominations must be submitted by Oct. 12, 2024, at 4 p.m. 

The full slate of family weekend activities includes:

Oct. 18, 2024:

4 p.m. – Welcome Reception and Pumpkin Painting - Stubblefield Center

6 p.m. – UAFS Lady Lions Volleyball vs. University of Nebraska at Kearney

Oct. 19, 2024:

8 a.m. – Monster Dash 5K Check-In – UAFS Bell Tower

Rev & Roar Car Show Check-In – Windgate Art and Design

9 a.m. – Monster Dash 5K Start

Rev & Roar Rally Car Show Start - Windgate Parking Lot

11 a.m. – Family Weekend Tailgate and Chili Cook-Off - Echols Parking Lot

1 p.m. – UAFS Lady Lions Volleyball vs. Fort Hays State University

To learn more about the event, visit the UAFS Family Weekend webpage.