Family Weekend will return to normal for the first year since 2019, as COVID-19 restrictions have eased. The events start on Friday, Sept. 23 and end on Sunday, Sept. 25.

Peggy Whaley, the director of the Center for Student Engagement and Success, said they will follow the guidelines that the University has on the Racer Safe and Healthy webpage, but there is no restriction on activities for Family Weekend. While masks are not required, those who want to wear masks are encouraged to do so. 

Whaley said one of the highlights for Family Weekend this year is the lunch, which takes place on the lawn between Alexander Hall and the Engineering and Physics Building on Saturday, Sept. 24 at 11:30 a.m. 

The lunch will feature a bounce house, lawn games, an ice cream truck and more. Racer One will also make an appearance. 

Whaley said Fall Fanfare is back this year, which is a scholarship fundraising concert featuring performances from various student ensembles. Another highlight is the Racer Walk where families can walk with the football team from the Curris Center to Roy Stewart Stadium. 

The football game against Eastern Illinois is also a big component, Whaley said. At halftime, they will recognize the Outstanding Parent and Family Members and the winner of this year’s Outstanding Parent/Family Member. 

“Those are some of the key things we’re excited about that families enjoy as well,” Whaley said. 

Whaley said around 600 families registered to attend Family Weekend. Nine hundred people have signed up for the lunch, and around 1,000 people bought  tickets for the football game.

Beyond what Murray State has to offer, Whaley said they encourage families to explore Murray and the surrounding area by visiting Land Between the Lakes or the Arboretum.

The planning for Family Weekend started in April when the planning committee evaluated last year’s schedule to see what worked well, what did not and if any changes were necessary. That is when they decided to bring back Fall Fanfare.

Whaley said they are excited to have Family Weekend back to normal, as Family Weekend is all about interaction and a chance for them to welcome families to campus.  

“[It’s] a chance for everybody to get back together to enjoy some good food, enjoy the activities on campus, cheer on the football team and see Racer One on the track. Everybody is very excited about it,” Whaley said. 

While registration is closed, football tickets can still be purchased by calling the Ticket Office at 270-809-3000. Fall Fanfare tickets can be purchased at the door.

For more information about Family Weekend and the schedule of events, please visit murraystate.edu/familyweekend.