The Fall Family Festival, a Concordia tradition that has occurred for over a decade, returns to campus this Fri., Oct. 28. Students and families are welcomed back to campus to take part in an exciting and fun autumn weekend offering an abundance of exciting activities and a time of fellowship.  

The Fall Festival, which is combined with Parents and Family weekend, will be in full swing this weekend on campus offering students and their families a lighthearted break from their typical Friday evening. With an array of fun activities, including lots of pumpkin spice and caramel apples, there are plenty of activities to engage in - whether it is petting zoos, caricature artists, carnival games, photo ops, or simply spending time with friends and family, there is certainly something to satisfy everyone this year. 

To highlight a personal favorite, Amanda Harris, Director of Student Life and Leadership Development cannot wait for a brand new fall activity - caramel apples, “I love my sweets! Students will be able to get freshly spun caramel apples with toppings of their choice like peanuts, M&Ms, Oreo crumble and more!” Assistant Director of Orientation and Student Activities, Jessica James, also could not get over the newest addition coming to the Fall Festival this weekend, “Who doesn't love a good caramel apple?” Students and families will definitely be in for a treat this year being able to make caramel apples with a delicious variety of toppings.  

Additionally, the caricature booth is making a comeback, something that students cannot miss. “I hope students will enjoy the caricature artist the most at the Fall Festival. The caricature artist was a hit last year, so I am glad we were able to bring it back this year. Everyone seemed to love getting a personalized cartoon drawing of themselves and their friends,” said senior, Sarah Ibrahim. 

Through all of these wholesome and fun choices, James wanted to bring attention to the real reason this event is so special for students and families alike, “This event is special because it is part of Parents and Family Weekend. I love that family members can join us and experience the Concordia community. It is so fun to see faculty and staff bring their kids to this event. It really makes this place feel more like home.” 

Being able to participate in traditions is meaningful for some. Harris, a Concordia alum, said, “I enjoy helping with the Fall Festival because this event is a Concordia tradition and it's nice to bring the fall vibes to our campus. I also love seeing students enjoy each of our different stations, especially the petting zoo!” Harris emphasized how tradition goes hand in hand with the current season of fall.

The Fall Festival starts on campus this Fri., Oct. 28. It is open to all students and families who are looking to participate in an enjoyable autumn evening filled with fellowship. 

And continuing the weekend festivities, Donne di Canto and the Men's Chorus perform under the direction of conductor Clarissa Shan on Sat., Oct. 29 at 7 p.m. in the CU Center. Tickets to the event are free for students. Donne di Canto is known for its expressive and engaging performances, and Men's Chorus delights by bringing the baritone and s few belly laughs. 

 

And don’t forget to keep an eye out for the next on campus event Casino Night. 

For more information on the fall festival, check out the link below.

https://www.cui.edu/parents-and-families/parent-and-family-weekend 

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