Penn State’s Parents and Families Weekend will grace Happy Valley from Friday, September 29 to Sunday, October 1. While Penn State football may be battling Northwestern in Illinois this weekend, there are still plenty of events going on right here in State College.

Some functions are highlighted below, but the full list of Parents and Families Weekend events can be found here.

Friday, September 29

Ice Cream Social & Student Performances

Where: HUB — ground floor near Jamba Juice

When: 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Families can enjoy complimentary ice cream from the Berkey Creamery while taking in performances from Penn State student groups. There will be a free photo booth so you can show your Penn State pride, too.

Penn State Women’s Ice Hockey vs. UConn

Where: Pegula Ice Arena

When: 6 p.m.

The Nittany Lions will play their first home series of the season against UConn starting Friday. Penn State Athletics will raise three banners to celebrate the 2022-2023 season as well. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased here or at the box office.

Saturday, September 30

Welcome Breakfast Reception

Where: HUB’s Alumni Hall

When: 9 to 9:45 a.m.

Join other Penn State families and enjoy a continental breakfast along with student music ensembles.

Penn State vs. Northwestern Football Game Watch Party

Where: HUB’s Alumni Hall

When: 11:30 a.m.

Enjoy light refreshments and cheer on the Nittany Lions as they play Northwestern. Practice your Penn State trivia and compete in games during breaks in game action.

Eberly College of Science Haunted-U

Where: Thomas Building

When: 6 to 8 p.m

Enjoy spooky science fun with the Eberly College of Science. See science demonstrations, Halloween activities, and “haunted” lab tours.

Sunday, October 1

Family Pictures at the Nittany Lion Shrine

Where: Corner of Burrowes and Curtin Road

When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Participate in a time-honored Penn State tradition of snapping a picture at the Nittany Lion Shrine. Pictures will be available after the event.

Pegula Ice Arena Public Skate

Where: Pegula Ice Arena Gate C

When: Noon to 2 p.m.

Enjoy an afternoon of skating at the Pegula Ice Arena. Skate rentals are available for $4. Admission is $9 for adults, $8 for youth and senior citizens, and $7 for Penn State students with a valid student ID. More information about public skate can be found here.

Ice Cream Mile

Where: IM Fields

When: 2 to 4 p.m.

Join Penn State Campus Recreation Competitive Sports, Fitness, and Wellbeing for an Ince cream mile. Participants can run a lap, eat a cup of ice cream, and then repeat until a mile is reached.

Families are also encouraged to use the hop-on/hop-off trolley service and CATA Bus system throughout the weekend.