Ah, family weekend.

The annual Penn State-sponsored event is a great time for parents to check in on their children, and see how the fall semester is treating them so far. While keeping tabs on their children may be the focus of this event, the university has set up many fun and interesting events around campus for parents to see what being a Penn State student is really like.

Starting on Friday, October 18, and running until Sunday, October 20, Parents and Families Weekend will be action-packed. Many events are highlighted below, but the full list can be found here.

Friday, October 18

Women’s Hockey vs. Dartmouth

Where: Pegula Ice Arena

When: 6 p.m.

Interested in seeing one of the nation’s top women’s hockey programs? The No. 12 Nittany Lions are set to take on Dartmouth as they begin preparation for conference play that starts at the end of the month.

Lion Chariot Pedicab Campus Tours

Where: HUB front entrance on Pollock Road

When: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Experienced Penn State pedicab drivers will take two to three riders around campus. Folks can make reservations by calling 814-404-2782 or emailing [email protected]. Rides will cost $95, and more information can be found at vamoslion.com. Tours will run throughout the weekend.

Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) Information Table

Where: HUB ground floor near fish tank

When: 2 to 3:30 p.m.

CAPS staff will be at their table to answer questions about the primary mental health care provider for Penn State students.

Visit Old Main & Bell Tower 

Where: Old Main

When: 2 to 4 p.m.

Folks can enjoy a tour of Old Main, Penn State’s main administrative building, as well as its iconic bell tower. The tower includes climbing 100 steps up a narrow stairway and can only accommodate 15 guests at a time, so please be prepared for an extended wait time.

Saturday, October 19

Parents & Families Welcome Breakfast Reception

Where: HUB Alumni Hall

When: 9 to 9:45 a.m.

While Parents and Families Weekend might start on Friday, the Saturday breakfast reception will serve as the weekend’s ~ official ~ kickoff. The event will include a continental breakfast, a student music ensemble, and more.

Horticulture Show

Where: Snider Arena

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Horticulture Club is set to celebrate its 110th annual Horticulture Show on Saturday. Folks can view and purchase annual and perennial plants, fall treats, and more from the group’s 8,000-square-foot display.

Sunday, October 20

Women’s Volleyball vs. Minnesota

Where: Rec Hall

When: 2 p.m.

Likely Penn State’s best fall sports team, women’s volleyball is set to take on Minnesota to remain undefeated in conference play. Tickets will run $9 for adults, $5 for youth, and nothing for students.

Fall Housing Fair

Where: HUB Alumni Hall

When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Penn State’s Fall Housing Fair brings together landlords, property managers, on-campus housing representatives, community officials, and university resources. The event lets students and their families ask questions, see what’s available, schedule apartment tours, and learn more about the rental process.