The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith invites students, families, and the Fort Smith community to experience campus life on Family Weekend, Oct. 18-19, 2024. This annual event offers two days packed with activities, games, and opportunities for families of all ages to celebrate their students.
“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 as Lions Volleyball takes on the University of Nebraska at Kearney at 6 p.m.
The excitement continues Saturday, October 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 tailgate 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 Art & Design 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 final event kicks off at 1 p.m., as the Lions face off against Fort Hays State University for the annual Pink Game honoring Breast Cancer Awareness Month. At the game, those battling cancer of any kind will be given a lavender ribbon to appreciate their courage and strength.
The 2024 Family of the Year Award, created by the UAFS Student Government Association, will be presented during the second set of Saturday’s game. The award celebrates families who have provided outstanding support to their UAFS students.
Family of the Year Nominations must be submitted by October 12, 2024, at 4 p.m.
The full slate of family weekend activities includes:
October 18, 2024:
4 p.m. – Welcome Reception and Pumpkin Painting at the Stubblefield Center
6 p.m. – UAFS Lady Lions Volleyball vs. University of Nebraska at Kearney at Stubblefield
October 19, 2024:
8 a.m. – Monster Dash 5K Check-In at the Bell Tower
Rev & Roar Car Show Check-In at Windgate Art and Design
9 a.m. – Monster Dash 5K Start at the Bell Tower
Rev & Roar Rally Car Show Start at the Windgate Parking Lot
11 a.m. – Family Weekend Tailgate and Chili Cook-Off at the Echols Parking Lot
1 p.m. – UAFS Lady Lions Volleyball vs. Fort Hays State University at Stubblefield
To learn more about the event, visit the UAFS Family Weekend webpage.
