Family Weekend 2025 at SUNY Cortland promises a mix of campus life, athletics, arts, and outdoor fun. Offering parents a firsthand look at what makes Cortland home for their kids, from early morning fitness to late night laughs, there’s something for everyone.
Friday
- 6:00 AM – Midnight: The Student Life Center (SLC) is open. Parents are welcome to use the fitness center, pool, track, and workout equipment. Check in at the front desk as a parent of a SUNY Cortland student, and complete the guest waiver.
- 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM: College Bookstore in Neubig Hall opens its doors. Great time to buy Cortland apparel, school supplies, or souvenirs.
- 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM: Dowd Gallery in the Fine Arts Center offers free admission. Perfect for a calm afternoon stroll through selected campus art.
- 4:00 – 7:00 PM: Check-In at Corey Union Lobby. Parents can pick up their “Family Weekend Packet” including pre-paid tickets and an updated schedule.
- 6:30 PM: Women’s Volleyball vs. Ithaca at Park Center, Corey Gymnasium. A spirited match and free admission.
- 7:00 PM: Student Activities Board Comedy Night, at the Function Room in Corey Union. Free appetizers and beverages while comedians Ryan Kelly and Dewayne White take over the stage.
Saturday
- 8:00 AM – Midnight: SLC open for fitness, pool, track, etc.
- 9:00 – 11:00 AM: Additional Check-In opportunity.
- 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM: Bookstore hours continue.
- 11:00 AM: Women’s Volleyball vs. Stevens.
- 11:00 AM: Presidents’ Brunch in the Corey Union Function Room. University President Erik J. Bitterbaum and Student Government President Parker Arenas will give a speech, followed by performances by a cappella groups. Brunch includes scrambled eggs, home fries, French toast, fruit, scones, bacon, mini cannoli, etc. Advance registration required.
- 1:00 PM: Big lineup of sports: Football vs. Alfred University (Stadium Complex, Grady Field), Men’s Soccer vs. Morrisville (Holloway Field), Women’s Ice Hockey exhibition vs. Nazareth (Park Center Alumni Arena).
- 2:00 – 5:00 PM: Beak & Skiff Apple Orchard is open for apple picking. Plan for travel time (short drive from campus).
- 3:00 PM: Women’s Volleyball versus Bard.
- 3:00 – 5:00 PM: Planetarium shows in Bowers Hall. Free admissions. Seating is limited and registration is required.
- 8:00 PM: Total Trivia Night in Corey Union Function Room. Fast-paced trivia with multiple rounds, covering topics from movies to history. A fun way to win prizes and cap off the evening.
Sunday
- 8:00 AM – Midnight: SLC open for fitness activities.
- 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM: College Bookstore open, last chance to pick up gear.
Beyond Campus: Local & Seasonal Activities
- Nearby attractions: bowling alleys, mini-golf, movie theaters, adventure centers like Greek Peak, and local arts or performance venues. SUNY Cortland+1
- Fall vibes: go apple picking, visit cider mills, or enjoy the changing leaves in parks or nature centers (such as Lime Hollow). SUNY Cortland+1
- Dining and shopping in Cortland and nearby areas provide a chance to explore the local community. Small cafés, family-friendly restaurants, and shops both on and off campus let parents experience student life beyond classes and athletics. Cortland Sites
Why Attend & Tips for Families
Family Weekend isn’t just about fun, it’s designed to let parents see both the academic and social side of their student’s life. It offers chances to:
- Connect: meet professors or staff, see where students live and study, and observe campus routines.
- Support: By attending athletic events or art shows, parents help students feel pride in their community.
- Explore: The resources available—library, recreation, wellness, student organizations—come alive during this weekend.
A few helpful tips:
- Register in advance for events such as Presidents’ Brunch or planetarium shows.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes: campus is large and events are spread out.
- Plan for weather: autumn in central New York can be chilly, possibly wet.
- Arrive early for check-in to avoid long lines.
- Use the weekend to ask questions: academics, housing, campus safety, finances, etc.
Family Weekend 2025 will happen on Oct. 17-19.