Welcome home for Family Weekend

by Ava Swearingen, student writer

We are thrilled to welcome families to campus Sept. 26-27 for Family Weekend! This annual tradition provides an opportunity for families to join students, faculty and staff in a celebration of the Harding community. The two-day event combines campus life, athletics and entertainment to provide a fun-filled weekend and give families a glimpse at the student experience.

Friday morning begins with chapel, a campus tradition that defines the University’s culture. Families are invited to join their students in this time of spiritual growth and connection. From there, parents may explore campus by attending classes, visiting one of the local beloved coffee shops, touring the Harding History House or simply walking through the First Ladies Garden and enjoying the view. The Family Weekend central tent will also be set up in the David B. Burks American Heritage Building for parents to get information about the weekend’s schedule and all things Harding.

Friday evening, the University is partnering with Main Street Searcy to sponsor a night of music and entertainment at Searcy’s annual Get Down Downtown festival. Performances include familiar staples like Belles & Beaux and the Thundering Herd Marching Band as well as a special Arts & Life series performance by Little Rock Winds. Plus, there will be vendors, food trucks, activities and more!

Harding’s partnership with the city underscores the unique relationship that makes this community so special. 

Amy Burton, director of Main Street Searcy, shared her excitement about the collaboration: “We love when Family Weekend and Get Down Downtown happen on the same weekend. The energy from the Harding families adds so much to the festival, and it’s a wonderful opportunity for visitors to experience the spirit of our downtown community.” 

Saturday morning opens with the Parent Network breakfast, a relaxed opportunity to meet other families, share memories and make lasting connections. From there, athletics take center stage. Families can catch women’s volleyball and both the men’s and women’s team soccer matches before joining in the excitement at Bison Park. Here, tailgating starts the hype for the Bison football game against rival Ouachita Baptist University. Food trucks, music and plenty of Harding pride will carry fans into First Security Stadium for one of the biggest games of the year.

Family Weekend is more than a busy schedule. It’s an invitation to be part of the Harding story. Whether it’s from tailgating, the Get Down Downtown festival or just going out to dinner, Family Weekend provides countless opportunities to experience what makes Harding home.