Bearkat Family Weekend
Weekend Schedule & Event Details
Explore the full lineup of Bearkat Family Weekend events, including activities, meal times, campus tours, and more to help you plan your visit.
Register for Bearkat Family Weekend and get ready for a weekend full of Bearkat pride, connection, and unforgettable memories. Bearkat Family Weekend is a special opportunity for families, supporters, and loved ones to experience campus life, celebrate student success, and create meaningful moments together at Sam Houston State University.
Family Weekend Early Check-In
Lowman Student Center 144
Tuesday – Thursday
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
All registered Family Weekend participants must check in to pick up their Family Weekend bags, schedule of events, badges, and wristbands. Students can pick up their families’ packages with a SHSU Student ID.
Schedule and event details are subject to change. All registrations and purchases are non-refundable.
Family Weekend Early Check-In
Lowman Student Center 144
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
All registered Family Weekend participants must check in to pick up their Family Weekend bags, schedule of events, badges, and wristbands. Students can pick up their families’ packages with a SHSU Student ID.
Serve Up Some Bearkat Pride!
Location: Bernard Johnson Coliseum
Game Time: 1 PM
Join other Bearkat Families in cheering on our Women’s Volleyball game against WKU. Go Bearkats!
Discount Code: https://gobearkats.evenue.net/promotions/FAMILY
Start your Bearkat Family Weekend experience by checking in, exploring campus, and kicking off an exciting weekend of activities and community. Friday is all about reconnecting, building relationships, and beginning your family’s Bearkat experience with fun and energy.
*Stop by a business in downtown Huntsville for your free orange sweet treat!
Free Pass to SHSU Campus Rec
Location: SHSU Campus Recreation
Hours: 6 AM - 10 PM
The SHSU Recreational Center is offering free entry for all families during Bearkat Family Weekend! 11/13, 11/14, & 11/15.
Bearkat Par-Tee on the Green
Location: Bearkat Course
Hours: 7:30 AM - 5 PM
The SHSU Bearkat Course is offering a discounted rate for all families of 18 holes plus a cart for only $35!
*Note: the last tee time of the day is 5 PM- please call in advance to schedule your tee times, as they will fill up quickly*
Family Weekend Check-In & Information Table
Location: Lowman Student Center Atrium
Hours: 8 AM - 6:30 PM
All registered Family Weekend participants must check in to pick up their Family Weekend bags, schedule of events, badges, and wristbands. Students can pick up their families’ packages with a SHSU Student ID.
Shop for SHSU promo!
Location: Campus Bookstore (Lowman Student Center)
Hours: 8 AM - 5 PM
Shop at the Campus Bookstore and explore a wide selection of Bearkat apparel, gifts, and essentials. Stop by, find your favorite gear, and show your Sam Houston pride wherever you go!
Visit the Sam Houston Memorial Museum and Republic of Texas Presidential Library
Location: Sam Houston Museum
Hours: 9 AM - 4:30 PM
Get to know General Sam Houston – leader, statesman, governor, champion of Texas independence, and first president of the Republic of Texas. The Sam Houston Memorial Museum and Republic of Texas Presidential Library is part of Sam Houston State University and dedicated to collecting, preserving, and interpreting the legacy of Sam Houston and his time in a 15-acre complex located on property once owned by Houston. Visit the Sam Houston Memorial Museum, two homes Sam Houston and his family lived in, and other historic structures in a park-like setting. For more information, visit our website at: www.samhoustonmemorialmuseum.com
Visit Granny Camp!
Location: 1219 Sam Houston Ave, Huntsville, TX 77340
Time: 10 AM - 10 PM
Visit Granny Camp and create a special craft to take back home with you!
*Use the code BEARKAT to receive 30% off*
Visit the Texas Prison Museum
Location: 491 TX-75 N in Huntsville, Texas
Time: 10 AM- 5 PM
Discounted Rate: $6.00
The Texas Prison Museum offers visitors a fascinating look into the history of the Texas prison system. Families can explore exhibits featuring prison artifacts, photographs, uniforms, and stories that provide insight into prison life and Texas corrections history.
Visit the Huntsville Public Library for Story Time
Location: Huntsville Public Library- 1219 13th St., Huntsville, TX 77340
Time: 10:45 AM- 11:30 AM
Attend Story Time at the Huntsville Public Library for kids 8 & under.*
Giant Games on the Plaza
Location: Frank Parker Plaza
Hours: 12:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Families can join for a time to play GIANT games and experience unforgettable memories on the Plaza!
Academic Colleges Open House
Time: 12 PM - 1:30 PM
Location: Varies
Families are invited to stop by the Academic Colleges during Open House hours! This is a wonderful chance to visit your academic colleges, chat with faculty and staff, and learn about the exciting programs available within your college at Sam Houston State University!
- College of Arts & Media
- TBD
- College of Business Administration
- TBD
- College of Criminal Justice
- Location: Criminal Justice Center
- Meet and greet with CJ departments and student organizations!
- College of Education
- Location: TEC, Room 279
- College of Health Sciences
- TBD
- College of Humanities & Social Sciences
- Location: 1st Floor Lobby
- Meet and greet with department chairs, faculty, and staff; capture a family photo in front of your college’s backdrop; and grab some yummy snacks to enjoy on the go!
- College of Science & Engineer Technology
- Location: Fred Pirkle Engineering Technology Center, Room 100
- Learn more about COSET through a PowerPoint presentation and receive some fun giveaways!
- Honors College
- Location: Academic Building IV- Suite 202
- Join the Honors College for a tour, Q&A session, interactive displays, and refreshments!
Serve Up Some Bearkat Pride!
Location: Bernard G. Johnson Coliseum
Game Time: 1 PM
Join other Bearkat Families in cheering on our Women’s Volleyball game against WKU. Go Bearkats!
Discount Code: https://gobearkats.evenue.net/promotions/FAMILY
Welcome Reception with Alumni
Location: Lowman Student Center White Ballroom
Hours: 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Join us for a special Welcome Reception with Alumni and celebrate the Bearkat family that continues to grow across generations! This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with the Bearkat Alumni Association, learn more about staying connected to SHSU, and celebrate what it means to be a Bearkat.
Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase tickets for the Alumni Association’s annual tuition raffle, plus enjoy exciting door prizes throughout the reception. Come connect, celebrate, and see what’s in store for you as part of the Bearkat family!
*Cash bar will be available
A Delicious Welcome to Family Weekend
Location: General's Market Dining Hall
Hours: 5 PM - 7 PM
Kick off an unforgettable Bearkat Family Weekend with dinner at Old Main Market! Enjoy a delicious meal and spend quality time with your family as you begin your weekend of Bearkat memories. It’s the perfect way to start the weekend, fuel up for all the fun ahead, and enjoy some quality time together on campus.
Please note that guests are responsible for purchasing their own meals.
Laughs, Strikes, and Show-Stopping Hits
Location: Lowman Student Center Kat Klub
Hours: 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Join fellow Bearkat families for an exciting evening of games, bowling, and karaoke. Whether you’re aiming for a perfect strike, showing off your competitive side, or taking the stage with your favorite song, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Night in Huntsvegas!
Location: Lowman Student Center Orange Ballroom
Hours: 7 PM - 8:30 PM
Enjoy an exciting Casino Night during Bearkat Family Weekend! Try your luck with fun casino-style games and enjoy a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking for a fun night out, everyone is welcome to go all in on an evening of entertainment, connection, and Bearkat spirit.
Enjoy a Show at the Old Town Theater: Performance by Max and Heather Stalling
Location: Old Town Theater- 1023 12th St, Huntsville, TX 77340
Time: 7:30 PM
Use the code BEARKATS to receive $5 off
Registration Link
Schedule and event details are subject to change. All registrations and purchases are non-refundable.
Saturday brings the full Bearkat experience to life. Spend the day immersed in campus traditions, student spirit, and opportunities to experience SHSU culture alongside your student.
*Stop by a business in downtown Huntsville for your free orange sweet treat!*
Bearkat Par-Tee on the Green
Location: Bearkat Course
Hours: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday: 7:30 AM - 5 PM
The SHSU Bearkat Course is offering a discounted rate for all families of 18 holes plus a cart for only $35!
Note: the last tee time of the day is 5 PM- please call in advance to schedule your tee times, as they will fill up quickly.
Family Weekend Check-In & Information Table
Location: Lowman Student Center Atrium
Hours: 8 AM - 4:30 PM
All registered Family Weekend participants must check in to pick up their Family Weekend bags, schedule of events, badges, and wristbands. Students can pick up their families’ packages with a SHSU Student ID.
Visit the Sam Houston Memorial Museum and Republic of Texas Presidential Library
Location: Sam Houston Museum
Hours: 9 AM - 4:30 PM
Get to know General Sam Houston – leader, statesman, governor, champion of Texas independence, and first president of the Republic of Texas. The Sam Houston Memorial Museum and Republic of Texas Presidential Library is part of Sam Houston State University and dedicated to collecting, preserving, and interpreting the legacy of Sam Houston and his time in a 15-acre complex located on property once owned by Houston. Visit the Sam Houston Memorial Museum, two homes Sam Houston and his family lived in, and other historic structures in a park-like setting. For more information, visit our website at: www.samhoustonmemorialmuseum.com
Learn about Life on the Houston Farm
Location: Sam Houston Memorial Museum and Republic of Texas Presidential Library - 1836 Sam Houston Avenue
Hours: 9 AM - 11 AM
Step back in time with us at the museum and learn about our university's namesake. Walk the actual property once owned by Sam and Margaret Houston. Visit with costumed interpreters and learn about life on the Houston farm and 1850s Texas, and join our interpreters for:
Tin punch – Woodland Home
Spinning w/Joy – Roberts-Farris Cabin
Butter churning & crackers – Eliza’s Kitchen
Muskets – Bear Bend Cabin
Blacksmithing – Joshua’s Forge
See the Houston family home, known as the Woodland Home, on its original site; Bear Bend Cabin, reported to be Sam's hunting lodge; the Steamboat House, the home Sam died in, and the Houston Mercantile in the Roberts-Farris Cabin, representing the Maryville, Tennessee, store of the early 1800s that Sam worked in when he was a young man. Then tour the Memorial Museum (free admission during the event time) and view the world's largest collection of Houston artifacts.
Craft Corner!
Location: Lowman Student Center 241
Hours: 10 AM - 1 PM
Get creative at Craft Corner! Bring your imagination and enjoy a fun, hands-on activity where families can create, connect, and make lasting memories together.
Visit the Texas Prison Museum
Location: 491 TX-75 N in Huntsville, Texas
Time: 10 AM - 5 PM
Discounted Rate: $6.00
The Texas Prison Museum offers visitors a fascinating look into the history of the Texas prison system. Families can explore exhibits featuring prison artifacts, photographs, uniforms, and stories that provide insight into prison life and Texas corrections history.
Bearkat Family Tailgate
Location: Bowers Stadium Parking Lot
Hours: 10 AM - 1 PM
Join us for the Bearkat Family Tailgate with a special Kids Corner/Block and celebrate the spirit, tradition, and excitement of Bearkat Family Weekend! Enjoy great food, connect with fellow Bearkat families, and create unforgettable memories before cheering on the Bearkats. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the Bearkat community, this is the perfect place to gather, celebrate, and show your orange and white pride!
Bearkat Marching Band Pre-Game Show!
Location: Bowers Stadium Parking Lot
Hours: 11:30 AM
Experience the excitement and tradition of Bearkat Game Day with the Bearkat Marching Band Pre-Game Show! Join fellow families and fans as the band fills the stadium with energy, music, and Bearkat pride before kickoff.
Bearkat BINGO!
Location: Lowman Student Center Orange Ballroom
Hours: 12 PM - 2:30 PM
Enjoy an evening filled with fun and friendly competition. Gather with fellow Bearkat families, test your luck, and play for exciting prizes while celebrating the spirit of the Bearkat community. Bring your family, grab your card, and get ready to shout BINGO!
Kickoff with the Kats!
Location: Bowers Stadium
Hours: 1 PM
Cheer on the Bearkats with your family at the football game! Wear your orange, enjoy the game day atmosphere, and experience one of SHSU's favorite traditions together. Go Kats!
Join other Bearkat Families in cheering on our football team as they take on Kennesaw State University. Go Bearkats!
Discount Code: https://gobearkats.evenue.net/promotions/FAMILY
Bearkat Marching Twirler Day
Location: Bowers Stadium Football Field
Bearkat Twirler Day gives high school and alumni twirlers the chance to join the Sam Houston State University Bearkat Marching Band and perform on game day. Participants will learn from current members and twirl alongside the band in a high-energy, supportive environment.
Click here for more information.
Celebrating Excellence, One Scoop at a Time
Location: Lowman Student Center 230
Hours: 1 PM - 3 PM
Celebrate academic excellence at Ice Cream with Honors! Join fellow Bearkat families for a sweet opportunity to recognize student achievements, connect with the Honors community, and enjoy a delicious treat together. It’s the perfect way to celebrate hard work, success, and the Bearkat spirit!
Free Pass to SHSU Campus Rec
Location: SHSU Campus Recreation
Hours: Friday: 3 PM - 10 PM
The SHSU Recreational Center offers free entry for all families during Bearkat Family Weekend! 11/13, 11/14, & 11/15.
Explore the town of Huntsville!
Hours: 5 PM
Take the evening to enjoy dinner on your own and explore all that Huntsville has to offer! Try a local restaurant, discover a new favorite spot, or enjoy time together around town. This is the perfect opportunity to experience the community beyond campus. Visit the downtown shops for a free orange sweet treat!
https://www.huntsvilletexas.com/
Schedule and event details are subject to change. All registrations and purchases are non-refundable.
Before heading home, take one last chance to relax, connect, and reflect on your Bearkat Family Weekend experience.
*Stop by a business in downtown Huntsville for your free orange sweet treat!*
Bearkat Par-Tee on the Green
Location: Bearkat Course
Hours: 7:30 AM - 5 PM
The SHSU Bearkat Course offers a discounted rate for all families of 18 holes plus a cart for only $35!
Note: the last tee time of the day is 5 PM- please call in advance to schedule your tee times, as they will fill up quickly.
A Delicious End to Family Weekend
Location: General's Market Dining Hall
Hours: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Wrap up an unforgettable Bearkat Family Weekend with Sunday Brunch! Enjoy a delicious meal and spend quality time with your family before heading home. It’s the perfect opportunity to relax, reflect on the weekend’s memories, and share one more meal together on campus.
Please note that guests are responsible for purchasing their own meals.
Visit the Sam Houston Memorial Museum and Republic of Texas Presidential Library
Location: 1836 Sam Houston Avenue
Hours: 12 PM - 4:30 PM
Get to know General Sam Houston – leader, statesman, governor, champion of Texas independence, and first president of the Republic of Texas. The Sam Houston Memorial Museum and Republic of Texas Presidential Library is part of Sam Houston State University and dedicated to collecting, preserving, and interpreting the legacy of Sam Houston and his time in a 15-acre complex located on property once owned by Houston. Visit the Sam Houston Memorial Museum, two homes Sam Houston and his family lived in, and other historic structures in a park-like setting. For more information, visit our website at: www.samhoustonmemorialmuseum.com
Free Pass to SHSU Campus Rec
Location: SHSU Campus Recreation
Hours: 3 PM - 10 PM
The SHSU Recreational Center is offering free entry for all families during Bearkat Family Weekend! 11/13, 11/14, & 11/15.
Schedule and event details are subject to change. All registrations and purchases are non-refundable.