The University of Delaware welcomed thousands of families back to campus Oct. 13-15 for the annual Parents and Family Weekend celebration, facilitated by the Division of Student Life. Blue Hen families reunited throughout UD’s main campus, checking out their students’ favorite spots and taking in the sights and sounds of UD in early autumn.

Festivities kicked off on Friday afternoon with resource fairs and receptions. Major Mania, which welcomed 40% more students this year for apple cider and prizes, helped nearly 150 students from six colleges learn about majors and minors with their families. That evening, attendees enjoyed a riveting a cappella performance by the Deltones registered student organization before comedians Joe Zimmerman and Brian Regan took the stage in the Bob Carpenter Center for the annual comedy show. Students, siblings, and parents alike reveled in the light-hearted evening.

“I love my parents and I love seeing them laugh,” sophomore Kayla Hughes said on Twitter after the show.

For some, Parents and Family Weekend brought with it a touch of nostalgia.

“Saw [Brian Regan] first when we were dating,” one parent, Eric Moxim, said on Twitter. “Tonight saw you with our 21 year old daughter. IpsoFacto we’re all old!”

Past attendees often credit the weekend program for helping them stay connected to their student and feel belonging within the UD community.

“Our experience was really wonderful,” said one attendee on the post-weekend survey. “I think University of Delaware does so much to keep parents informed as well as provide terrific opportunities to experience campus life.”

Offerings throughout Saturday and Sunday included the indoor Family Fest Tailgate, featuring a veterans recognition ceremony and a cappella by the RSO Vocal Point as well as performances by the UD cheerleading and dance teams.

“Parents and Family Weekend is always a highlight of the year,” said José-Luis Riera, interim vice president for Student Life. “Family members are valued partners in our support of student success, and the weekend allows us to come together to show our appreciation for their dedication to the Blue Hen community.”

The Fightin’ Blue Hens football game, a favorite tradition of many, included a 17-0 shutout against the William & Mary Tribe. Other family-friendly activities included a university-style brunch in campus dining halls, a maker space featuring build-your-own electronics, art and history exhibitions, and more.

Dates for next year’s Parents and Family Weekend will be announced in early spring at the PFW website. Interested participants will again have the opportunity to sign up for email updates related to the program, and members of the UD community who are interested in hosting an event during next year’s Weekend will be able to register their interest online.