Family Weekend Guide
Plan Family Weekend before hotels sell out
Family Weekend is the one weekend each fall when families return to campus. Hotels near popular schools sell out weeks ahead — and travel prices climb fast. Find your campus's dates and lock in your plans early.
Select your college
What is Family Weekend?
Family Weekend (sometimes called Parents Weekend or Family & Friends Weekend) is a designated weekend each fall when colleges invite families back to campus. Expect special events, open classes, performances, athletic games, and a chance to spend time with your student in their day-to-day environment.
Why plan early?
Hotels near campus fill up weeks — sometimes months — before Family Weekend. Flights and rental cars get more expensive the longer you wait. Once you know the dates, book lodging and travel right away to stay close to campus and save.
Travel tips
- Book flights 4–6 weeks ahead for the best fares.
- Stay within walking or short shuttle distance of campus.
- Reserve a rental car early — inventory is limited in college towns.
- Ask your student about the campus event schedule before booking.
Don't see your campus dates?
Schools publish Family Weekend dates at different times. If your campus isn't listed yet, check the official registrar or family programs page — and check back here, we update our calendars as dates are released.