6 AM - 6 PM
University Recreation Family Weekend Workout (UREC and UPARK; Parking: Convocation Center Lots, and Sentara Park Lots U5)
Family members ages 16+ are welcome to participate at UREC and UPARK! Please be sure to bring a photo ID, and the students must accompany their family members during their time in the facilities.

9 AM - 3 PM
Fall Plant & Bulb Sale (Edith J. Carrier Arboretum; Parking: Arboretum lots, R5 Lot on Univ. Blvd)
Calling all plant lovers! The Edith J. Carrier Arboretum's Fall Plant & Bulb Sale begins on September 27th! Shop from a variety of houseplants, native perennials, shrubs, and trees! This ongoing sale is in the Frances Plecker Education Center and on the Ernst Tree Terrace. Support us during our Great Garden Giveback campaign by making an additional plant purchase to contribute to the completion of new, ongoing projects! 

More information »

11 AM - 5 PM
Duke Hall Gallery of Fine Arts (Duke Hall, Room 1022, Free; Parking: Mason St Deck levels 3-5)
The Duke Gallery of Fine Art is excited to open the 2024 – 2025 academic year with the Minia Biabiany exhibit.

More information »

2 - 5 PM
General Education Student Conference (Festival Conference and Student Center; Parking: D3 Lot across from Festival, Ballard Deck)
Meet inspirational professors and learn more about the JMU General Education Program while experiencing outstanding student work in subjects from the natural sciences, humanities, and the social sciences. Some of the most creative, exciting and noteworthy work produced by students in General Education classes will be presented. Multiple conference sessions are available, so you are welcome to attend multiple sessions or just one.

More information »

2 PM
Field Hockey vs Central Michigan (Field Hockey Complex, Free Admission, Parking: C10, C12)
Grab your whole family to cheer on the Dukes at the Field Hockey Complex in their first ever home opponent as part of the Mid-American Conference!

3:30 - 6:30 PM
JMU-OTCES Presents “Let’s Play D-U-U-K-E-E-S” (131 W. Grace Street; Parking: Chesapeake Ave Deck)
JMU-OTCES (JMU Occupational Therapy Clinical Education Services) is hosting an event for students and family members of ALL ages and abilities on Friday afternoon. This event includes a variety of stations with competitive activities where Dukes and their families can go head-to-head in unique challenges that highlight the distinct value of occupational therapy! Come grab some purple and gold beads for the game and take a photo in our #JMUFamilyWeekend photo booth!

• Sensory-Friendly!
• Parents to accompany children/teens at ALL times throughout the events
• Check out our clinic website
• Please call or email if you would like additional information: 540-568-4980 or otces@jmu.edu

4 - 6 PM
College of Business Learning Complex Open House and Tours (Hartman Hall; Parking: G Lot)
Join College of Business faculty, staff, and students for an Open House and tours of the CoB Learning Complex. Tours will begin in Hartman Hall every 30 minutes. Stop by to see the complex and have a refreshment! Parking is available in P or G Lot until 6:30 pm by entering at the north entrance. RSVP to attend and enter a chance to win 4 club seat football tickets for the Ball State vs. JMU game on Saturday, September 28, 2024. RSVP by Friday, September 20 at 8 am for a chance to win. You must be present to win, ticket drawing will take place at 5:30pm. Walk-ins are welcome at this event, but not eligible for the drawing.

4 - 6 PM
International Week Variety Show (The Union: TDU Stage, Free Admission, Parking: Grace St Parking Deck)
Join us for this colorful event as JMU international students present their talents, traditional dances, music, and fashion from around the world!

6 PM
Volleyball vs Appalachian State (Convocation Center, Free Admission, Parking: Convocation Center Lots)
Grab your whole family to cheer on the Dukes at the Convocation Center in a key Sun Belt Conference rivalry!

6 - 10 PM
University Recreation Family Hours (UREC and UPARK; Parking: Convocation Center Lots, and Sentara Park Lots U5)
Family members of all ages are welcome to participate at UREC and UPARK during Family Hours! Want to indoor rock climb or swim? Check out the Adventure and Aquatics Center hours! Please be sure to bring a photo ID, and students must accompany their family members during their time in the facilities.

7 PM
Under the Wolf's Cloak 360° Immersive Dance Screening (John C. Wells Planetarium, Free; Parking: Mason St Deck Levels 3-5)
Experience a playful retelling of Little Red Riding Hood from a feminist perspective. It involves 24 dancers, 6 instructors, 5 departments and 4 very patient film and lighting technicians. Thanks to everyone from the School of Media, Art and Design, the Dance Department, the Physics and Astronomy Department, the Theater Department and the English Department and the Music Department who helped to make this possible.

More information »

7 - 10 PM
Location Change - Friday Night Flights (Godwin Gym)
Join JMU alumni, fans, parents, and community for Friday Night Flights on Friday, September 27th from 7:00-10:00 p.m. This premier Duke Club fall season event will include beer and wine tasting from local breweries and wineries across the valley. (Advanced registration required)

You can learn more and purchase your tickets by visiting JMUDukeClub.com/FNF
Questions? Contact the Duke Club at dukeclub@jmu.edu or (540) 568-6461.

7 - 10 PM
UPB Movie: Inside Out 2 (Free, Grafton-Stovall Theatre; Parking: Grace St Deck)
Students and families are welcome to watch the movie and enjoy free popcorn!

8 PM (Doors open at 6:30 PM)
POPS PLUS! A CVPA Collaborative Arts Celebration for Student Scholarships (Atlantic Union Bank Center, Tickets: $33; Parking: Ballard Deck)

You are invited to a magical night out at JMU's College of Visual and Performing Arts POPS PLUS! Collaborative Arts Celebration benefiting student scholarships. This exciting event is a super-charged version of one of JMU's beloved Family Weekend traditions – the JMU POPS! Concert featuring five of JMU’s finest musical ensembles including the JMU Brass Band, the Wind Symphony, the Madison Singers and Chorale, The Marching Royal Dukes (w/Colorguard), alongside a dazzling lineup of performances by JMU's talented students in the School of Theatre and Dance.  

To add even more fun to the evening, all patrons will enjoy a silent auction that will highlight over 20 pieces of beautiful original artwork by JMU students, faculty and alumni from JMU’s School of Art, Design and Art History. 

You can enjoy this amazing performance in one of two ways: Purchase Single Tickets (general admission) or elevate your experience with an exclusive Gala pre-show cocktail reception in the AUBC Club Room that includes drinks, dinner, a live auction, and a reserved seat for the performance.  

All event proceeds, including tickets and auction pieces purchased, benefit CVPA student scholarships and help make students' dreams a reality in the Arts at JMU! 

Purchase Tickets » 
To purchase tickets you are being directed to JMU’s Greater Giving website. Greater Giving is the portal for purchasing Single Tickets ($33), or the Gala pre-show cocktail reception tickets ($135), and for all auction purchases. If you need assistance, please contact the Forbes Box office at 540-568-7000.

8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
SOLD OUT - Family Weekend Canoe Trip (Meet at UREC Adventure Center) - Limit of 22
Includes the equipment, leaders, and transportation | dress in layers in clothes than can get wet (just in case) and wear shoes with straps that can get wet (no flip-flops) | please bring a small backpack, 2 liters of water, sunblock and a hat | $20 per person, internet processing fees may apply.

Enjoy the beauty of the valley as we canoe on the South Fork of the Shenandoah River. Paddle “Lake Shenandoah,” a flat-water-section in northeastern Rockingham County about 30 minutes from JMU. Basic canoeing and safety instruction will be covered. All you need to bring are your paddling clothes and shoes. Location subject to change due to conditions on the day of the event. Students can register themselves and their families through the JMU Ticket Office or (540) 568-3853. Please register for ticketed events by September 19, 2024. Contact UREC's Coordinator for Adventure & Camp Specialist with questions.

8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
SOLD OUT - Family Weekend Hike (Meet at UREC Adventure Center) - Limit of 30
Includes leaders, and transportation| dress in layers and wear closed toed shoes, and a rain jacket is always a good idea | please bring a small backpack, 2 liters of water, sunblock and a hat | $25 per person, internet processing fees may apply

We will meet at UREC then travel to the border of West Virginia for a scenic hike to the historic High Knob fire tower. This moderate 3-mile round-trip trail hike includes some uphill hiking. Your efforts will be rewarded with a 360-degree view of the Allegheny and Blue Ridge mountains from the top of a fire tower. Location subject to change due to conditions on the day of the event. Students can register themselves and their families through the JMU Ticket Office or (540) 568-3853. Please register for ticketed events by September 19, 2024. Contact UREC's Coordinator for Adventure & Camp Specialist with questions. 

9 AM - 10 PM
University Recreation Family Hours (UREC and UPARK; Parking Map)
Family members of all ages are welcome to participate at UREC and UPARK during Family Hours! Want to indoor rock climb or swim? Check out the Adventure and Aquatics Center hours! Please be sure to bring a photo ID, and students must accompany their family members during their time in the facilities.

9 AM - 3 PM
Fall Plant & Bulb Sale (Edith J. Carrier Arboretum; Parking: Arboretum lots, R5 Lot on Univ. Blvd.)
Calling all plant lovers! The Edith J. Carrier Arboretum's Fall Plant & Bulb Sale runs September 27-October 5! Shop from a variety of houseplants, native perennials, shrubs, and trees! This ongoing sale is in the Frances Plecker Education Center and on the Ernst Tree Terrace. Support us during our Great Garden Giveback campaign by making an additional plant purchase to contribute to the completion of new, ongoing projects! 

More information »

10 AM - Noon
CANCELED - Family Weekend Downtown Bike Ride (Meet at UREC Adventure Center) - Limit 15
Includes leaders, helmets and adult sized bikes only | Helmets (provided) required | $10 per person, internet processing fees may apply

We will meet at UREC then ride a short distance to the Harrisonburg Farmers’ Market where you can purchase great local breakfast items. After enjoying the Farmers’ Market, you are welcome to explore downtown before riding back as a group to UREC. Students can register themselves and their families through the JMU Ticket Office or (540) 568-3853. Please register for ticketed events by September 19, 2024. Contact UREC's Coordinator for Adventure & Camp Specialist with questions. 

Purchase Tickets »

10 AM - Noon
Location Change - JMU Family Photobooth (D-Hall Clock Tower Foyer, Free; Parking Map)
Visit the JMU Family Photobooth to take a fun photo with your JMU Family and pick up some free purple and gold beads and pom-poms! You can also get a one-of-a-kind Duke Dog Color-me pennant to show your Duke Pride!

Canceled - Events on Hanson Field (yard games, face-painting by The Glitter Bee and Lola's Delicatessen)

10 AM - 8 PM
D-Hall Fun-Tastic Family Weekend (Parking Map)
Reservations not required, but preferred. (Those with reservations will print off tickets $16 tax included)
$16.25 (plus tax if purchased at the door), kids 5 and under free (JMU students free with meal plan and must have their JACard at the event to deduct 1 punch)

All-you-care-to-eat dining stations: See Scheduled Menu

Purchase Tickets »

11 AM
Planetarium Show: One World One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure (John C. Wells Planetarium, Free; Parking: Mason St Deck Levels 3-5)
Follow Sesame Street's Big Bird and Elmo as they explore the night sky with Hu Hu Zhu, a Muppet from Zhima Jie, the Chinese co-production of Sesame Street. Together, they take an imaginary trip from Sesame Street to the moon, where they discover how different it is from Earth. (27 minutes)

11 AM - 5 PM
Duke Hall Gallery of Fine Arts (Duke Hall, Room 1022, Free; Parking: Mason St Deck Levels 3-5)
The Duke Gallery of Fine Art is excited to open the 2024 – 2025 academic year with the Minia Biabiany exhibit.

More information »

11 AM - 1 PM
FanZone (Godwin Patio, Free; Parking Map)
The Fan Zone is a family-focused pre-game festival that features inflatable games, music, and much more! The Fan Zone opens two and a half hours prior to kickoff and remains open until 30 minutes before game time. Come out and show your JMU Pride while having fun with the whole family.

1:30 PM Kickoff
SOLD OUT - Football vs. Ball State (Bridgeforth Stadium/Zane Showker Field; Parking Map)
Join us for our annual Family Weekend football game as your Dukes host Ball State! Single game tickets for Duke Club members are available starting on June 24 and July 1 for the general public. Please call the JMU Athletic ticket office for more information 540-568-3853. (If you wish to sit with your student during the game, you will need to purchase a General Admission ticket. Families can no longer reserve a JMU student ticket as part of their Family Weekend ticket order.) Student tickets can be reserved at Student.JMUTickets.com 12 days before game day beginning at 9am. Register your student for the Student Duke Club in order to gain 24-hour early access to tickets.

Game Day Info »

1:30-5:30 PM 
Football Game Live Stream (The Union, TDU Stage; Parking Map)
Don't have a ticket to the football game? Stop by TDU and watch JMU Football! Seating is limited.

Noon - 6:00 PM
Harrisonburg International Festival (Downtown Harrisonburg-Town Square, Parking Information)
The Harrisonburg International Festival is a very special event that celebrates this area's rich cultural and language diversity. One of Harrisonburg’s largest annual attractions, the festival draws more than 9,000 people every year from the Shenandoah Valley as well as areas such as Baltimore and DC. This family-friendly event is free, with plenty of food and crafts available for purchase, and activities for visitors of all ages. There will be international food trucks and artisan booths, catch up with friends and neighbors at the Global Village, businesses will be hosting entertainment, educational, and interactive “pop-ups” of all kinds. Get out and experience Harrisonburg’s diverse culture and the festival’s longstanding ethos: “Educate, Entertain, and Eat!”

Please see this guide for parking and events happening in downtown Harrisonburg this weekend!

1:00 PM
Planetarium Show: One World One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure (John C. Wells Planetarium, Free; Parking: Mason St Deck Levels 3-5)
Follow Sesame Street's Big Bird and Elmo as they explore the night sky with Hu Hu Zhu, a Muppet from Zhima Jie, the Chinese co-production of Sesame Street. Together, they take an imaginary trip from Sesame Street to the moon, where they discover how different it is from Earth. (27 minutes)

2:15 & 3:30 PM
Planetarium Show: Black Holes: To Infinity and Beyond (John C. Wells Planetarium, Free; Parking: Mason St Deck Levels 3-5)
There's a place from which nothing escapes, not even light, where time and space literally come to end. It's at this point, inside this fantastic riddle, that black holes exert their sway over the cosmos ... and our imaginations. Zip through other-worldly wormholes, experience the creation of the Milky Way Galaxy, and witness the violent death of a star and subsequent birth of a black hole. Mathematical equations, cutting-edge science, and Einstein's theories fill in holes along the way, providing the most complete picture yet on this mysterious phenomenon. Can you feel the pull? (25 minutes) View Trailer

4:30 - 8 PM
SOLD OUT - E-Hall Fantastic Feast (Parking: Ballard Deck)
Reservations required - no walk ins. (print off tickets) Early seating 4:30-6:00pm, Late seating from 6:15-8:00pm. $28 (tax included), children (6-12 years) $17.50, 5 and under free (JMU students free with meal plan and must have their JACard at the event to deduct 1 punch)

All-you-care-to-eat dining stations include:

• Steamed Crab Legs: Served with drawn butter and fresh lemon
• Gourmet Shrimp Cocktail: Chilled Jumbo Shrimp served with classic cocktail sauce or creamy Cajun cocktail sauce
• Grilled Pear and Goat Cheese Salad: A bed of field greens topped with warm grilled pears, quinoa, acorn squash, pomegranate seeds, herbed goat cheese, pepitas, and a strawberry balsamic vinaigrette
• Butternut Squash Bisque (vegetarian): Roasted, spiced butternut squash soup topped with maple crème fraiche, and apple-ginger relish
• Smoked Beef Brisket: Hand-carved beef brisket with maple barbeque sauce, served with roasted fingerling potatoes, and fall vegetable medley
• Roasted Salmon: Dijon Herb Crusted Salmon Fillet topped with arugula gremolata served over wild rice and roasted rainbow carrots
• Artisan Charcuterie: Gourmet meats, cheeses, bread & fresh seasonal fruit, served with assorted jams, jellies, mustards
• Made to Order Pasta Bar: Customizable choice of seasonal vegetables (vegan) and chicken made fresh with choice of classic marinara sauce (vegan) or Vodka cream sauce
• Specialty Char-Grilled Burger: Ground short rib and brisket burger with sharp cheddar cheese, black pepper bacon, and house-made special sauce
• Chimichurri Chicken: Marinated chicken skewers roasted in our tandoor oven topped with chimichurri served over chorizo potato bravas, grilled sweet peppers and wild mushrooms, Argentinian white sauce
• Tofu Tikka Masala (vegan): Marinated grilled local tofu in a creamy tomato and pepper sauce served over garlic basmati rice with fried onions, served with vegan raita, mango chutney, and fresh baked naan bread
• Seasonal Fruit and Dessert: Fresh seasonal fruit display and house made gourmet desserts

Purchase Tickets »

7 PM
Under the Wolf's Cloak 360° Immersive Dance Screening (John C. Wells Planetarium, Free; Parking: Mason St Deck Levels 3-5)
Experience a playful retelling of Little Red Riding Hood from a feminist perspective. It involves 24 dancers, 6 instructors, 5 departments and 4 very patient film and lighting technicians. Thanks to everyone from the School of Media, Art and Design, the Dance Department, the Physics and Astronomy Department, the Theater Department and the English Department and the Music Department who helped to make this possible.

More information »

8 PM
The Doo Wop Project (Wilson Hall, Tickets: $34 - $45; Parking: Warsaw Deck, A Lot for accessible permits)

Featuring stars from Broadway’s hit shows like Jersey Boys, Motown:The Musical and Hairspray, The Doo Wop Project reimagines some of the greatest music in American pop and rock history! With huge vocal talent, slick dance moves and stunning showmanship, these five performers and their hot band take audiences on a journey from the 1950s through today’s contemporary hits sharing their own unique and upbeat “Doowopafied” arrangements. The Doo Wop Project brings an unparalleled authenticity of sound and vocal excellence to this energetic performance that will have you and your family dancing in the aisles!

All sales final. No refunds or exchanges. Box opens one and one half hour prior to the performance at Wilson Hall. 

Patrons can park for free in the Warsaw Parking Deck behind the Forbes Center one and a half hours prior to performances. Patrons can walk up the quad to Wilson Hall. Also, a free shuttle will run from the Warsaw Parking Deck to Wilson Hall starting one hour prior to performances and returning immediately following.

Purchase Tickets»

9 - 11 AM
Study Abroad Reception (D-Hall 3rd floor, Hall of Presidents, Free; Parking: Warsaw Deck, A Lot for Accessible Permits)
This is a drop-in event where students, parents, family, and friends will be able to meet with the Study Abroad Staff, Global Dukes (study abroad alums), and Semester Program Directors to talk about our 90+ JMU study abroad programs. Breakfast items and coffee will be available as well unique study abroad swag for students and families. All are invited!

9 - 11 AM
Breakfast with the Honors Community (Hillcrest House, Free, RSVP Required); Parking: Grace Street Deck)
Enjoy breakfast with the Honors College team. Honors students and families are welcome! More details and RSVP link to come in September Honors College Newsletter.

9 AM - 5 PM
Softball Fall Ball Game vs. Bridgewater/Mary Baldwin (Veteran Memorial Softball Stadium)
Grab your whole family to cheer on the Dukes at the Softball Stadium!

11 AM - 6 PM
University Recreation Family Hours (UREC and UPARK, Parking: Convocation Center Lots and Sentara Park Lots U5)
Family members of all ages are welcome to participate at UREC and UPARK during Family Hours! Want to indoor rock climb or swim? Check out the Adventure and Aquatics Center hours! Please be sure to bring a photo ID, and students must accompany their family members during their time in the facilities.

Hours Vary By Location
Family Brunch at E-Hall or D-Hall ($12 + tax/person | No tickets necessary; Parking: Ballard Deck, Grace St Deck)
Choose from a selection of breakfast and lunch items. If your student has a meal plan, there is no additional charge. They just punch their JACard at the door as usual. And even better, if they have FLEX or Dining Dollars, they can pay for your meal.

2 PM
Acappellathon Concert (Memorial Hall Auditorium | $5/person Cash or Check)
Concert featuring JMU's award-winning, student-led acappella groups. Please email acappellajmu@gmail.com with specific questions regarding the event.

6 PM
Women’s Soccer vs Old Dominion (Sentara Park, Free Admission, Parking: Sentara Park Lots U5)
Grab your whole family to cheer on the Dukes at Sentara Park in a “Royal Rivalry” matchup!