Bearkat Family Weekend

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.

Registration is required in advance. There will be no day-of registration.

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
Time: 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.

Bearkat Volleyball Game
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.

Free Pass to SHSU Campus Rec
Location: SHSU Campus Recreation
Time: 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.

Free Play in the Kat Klub!
Location: Lowman Student Center, Kat Klub
Time: 7 AM - 9:30 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. *Free play included* 

Play a Round at the Bearkat Course
Location: Bearkat Course
Time: 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
Time: 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.

CARE Closet Donation Drive
Location: LSC Atrium
Time: 8 AM - 6:30 PM

Support SHSU students by donating a complete Meal Kit or Care Kit to the CARE Network CARE Closet. These kits provide essential food, household, and personal care items to students experiencing financial hardship.

One Complete Kit = One Giveaway Entry!
Each complete kit donated earns one entry into a drawing for SHSU swag and other giveaway prizes.

Please see the event flyer for approved kit options and donation requirements.

Shop for SHSU promo!
Location: Campus Bookstore (Lowman Student Center)
Time: 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
Time: 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 is 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

Academic Colleges Open House
Time: 12 PM - 2 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
  • Location: Gaertner Performance Arts Center, 1st Floor Lobby
• College of Business Administration

  • Location: Smith-Hutson Business Building, 1st Floor Lobby

  • Join the College of Business Administration for giveaways, games, refreshments, and possibly meet the COBA Organization leaders and Ambassadors! 
• 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
  • Locations:
    • Kinesiology - 1st floor of Lee Drain Building
    • Human Sciences - 1st floor Margaret Lea Houston Building
    • Public Health - 4th floor of CHSS
• 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 & Engineering 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!

Resource Sessions
Location: Lowman Student Center (3rd floor)
Time: 12 PM - 2 PM

Join us for our Bearkat Family Weekend Resource Sessions and discover the many tools, services, and opportunities available to support your student’s success. These sessions are designed to help families connect with campus resources, learn more about the Bearkat experience, and gain valuable insights to help their students thrive. Come explore, ask questions, and build connections with the Bearkat community!

• Financial Aid & Student Money Management (LSC 321)
• HR Student Employment Team (LSC 322)
• First Gen Center (LSC 317)
• Pre-Health & Undergraduate Research (LSC 323)
• Study Abroad (LSC 320)
• Academic Success Center (LSC 325)
• School of Nursing (LSC 328)
• Career Success Center (LSC 324)

Bearkat Volleyball Game
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

Bearkat Family Portraits!
Location: Outside of Austin Hall (1741 University Avenue, Huntsville, Texas, 77340)
Time: 1 PM - 3:30 PM

Families can have family portraits made to remember the Bearkat Family Weekend experience!

Plants with Residence Life
Location: San Jacinto Hall
Time: 1-4 PM

Join Residence Life for a fun-filled afternoon of potting plants, getting creative, and adding a little more green to your space!

Community Showcase
Location: Frank Parker Plaza
Time: 2 - 4 PM

Join us on the plaza for a fun, family-friendly showcase featuring local Huntsville businesses! Meet local vendors, discover new favorites, and enjoy connecting with the businesses that help make our community special!

Welcome Reception with Alumni
Location: Lowman Student Center White Ballroom
Time: 3:30 PM - 6:30 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 a single ticket or 6 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
Time: 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.

Silent Disco
Location: Lowman Student Center, Room 241
Time: 6:30 - 8:30 PM

Get ready to dance, laugh, and make unforgettable memories at the Bearkat Family Weekend Silent Disco! Put on your headphones, choose your favorite tunes, and enjoy a one-of-a-kind dance experience with family and friends. Whether you’re showing off your best moves or just enjoying the atmosphere, everyone is invited to join the fun. 

Night in Huntsvegas!
Location: Lowman Student Center Orange Ballroom
Time: 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.

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. 

Play a Round at the Bearkat Course
Location: Bearkat Course
Time: 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
Time: 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
Time: 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
Time: 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.

Free Play in the Kat Klub!
Location: Lowman Student Center, Kat Klub
Time: 10 AM - 8 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. *Free play included*

Craft Corner!
Location: Lowman Student Center 241
Time: 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.

Attend the Open House at the Library
Location: Newton Gresham Library
Time: 10 AM - 12 PM

Join the Newton Gresham Library for an Open House and solve a murder mystery with your morning coffee, and check out various unique library collections and resources along the way!

Bearkat Family Tailgate
Location: Bowers Stadium Parking Lot
Time: 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
Time: 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
Time: 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!

Bearkat Family Feud
Location: Lowman Student Center, Theater
Time: 12 PM–1:30 PM

Get ready for an afternoon filled with laughter, friendly competition, and Bearkat family fun! Team up with your family, test your knowledge, and see if you can guess the most popular answers on the board. Bring your family, pick your team, and get ready to battle it out for exciting prizes while celebrating the spirit of the Bearkat community!

Kickoff with the Kats!
Location: Bowers Stadium
Time: 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.

Ice Cream with Honors
Location: Lowman Student Center 230
Time: 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
Time: 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.

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.

Play a Round at the Bearkat Course
Location: Bearkat Course
Time: 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
Time: 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
Time: 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 is 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
Time: 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.

Kick off Bearkat Family Weekend by settling into Huntsville and exploring the community. Discover local restaurants, shops, attractions, and activities as you begin a fun-filled weekend together.

*Stop by a business in downtown Huntsville for your free orange sweet treat!

Shop Downtown Huntsville
Time: Varies

Wrap up your Bearkat Family Weekend by exploring the charm of downtown Huntsville. Browse unique boutiques, specialty shops, and antique stores, while discovering some of the community's favorite destinations. The following downtown businesses will be open and ready to welcome Bearkat families throughout the weekend:

• The Crooked Crown
• Good Ol’ Times
• Splintercraft Artisan Works
• Uptown Vintage Too
• Louise & Oleta’s
• DejaVu Decor
• Bargain Boxx / Simply Seconds
• Mortar & Pestle
• Cell Block Sips & Bakery
• Sam Houston Antique Mall
• Bluebonnet Antiques

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 H.E.A.R.T.S. Veterans Museum of Texas
Location: 463 State Hwy 75 N, Huntsville, TX 77320
Time: 10 AM- 5 PM

Discounted Admission: Free for students with a valid student ID. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children.
HEARTS Museum is a one-of-a-kind museum. Rather than a traditional military museum, HEARTS focuses on people—particularly the veterans who have served to protect our nation, preserve our freedom, and help secure freedom for people around the world.

Story Time at the Huntsville Public Library
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.*

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.

Spend Saturday discovering all that Huntsville has to offer. Enjoy local restaurants, shops, attractions, and community experiences while making memories with your Bearkat.

*Stop by a business in downtown Huntsville for your free orange sweet treat!*

Shop Downtown Huntsville
Time: Varies

Wrap up your Bearkat Family Weekend by exploring the charm of downtown Huntsville. Browse unique boutiques, specialty shops, and antique stores, while discovering some of the community's favorite destinations. The following downtown businesses will be open and ready to welcome Bearkat families throughout the weekend:

• The Crooked Crown
• Good Ol’ Times
• Splintercraft Artisan Works
• Uptown Vintage Too
• Louise & Oleta’s
• DejaVu Decor
• Bargain Boxx / Simply Seconds
• Mortar & Pestle
• Cell Block Sips & Bakery
• Sam Houston Antique Mall
• Bluebonnet Antiques

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 H.E.A.R.T.S. Veterans Museum of Texas
Location: 463 State Hwy 75 N, Huntsville, TX 77320
Time: 10 AM- 5 PM

Discounted Admission: Free for students with a valid student ID. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children.
HEARTS Museum is a one-of-a-kind museum. Rather than a traditional military museum, HEARTS focuses on people—particularly the veterans who have served to protect our nation, preserve our freedom, and help secure freedom for people around the world.

Enjoy a Show at the Performance Arts Center: Performance by 3 Heath Brothers
Location: Huntsville High School - 441 FM 2821 East, Huntsville, TX 77320
Time: 7:00 PM

Attend the 3HeathBrothers concert supporting HISD Social Services (primarily students who are unhoused and food insecure) as well as Walker County Meals on Wheels! Please visit 3HeathBrothers.com to purchase your tickets.

Promo Code: BEARKAT to save $5 off each ticket

Explore the town of Huntsville!
Time: 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 some time to explore Huntsville and enjoy the local restaurants, shops, attractions, and experiences that make our community special.

Stop by a business in downtown Huntsville for your free orange sweet treat!

Shop Downtown Huntsville
Time: Varies

Wrap up your Bearkat Family Weekend by exploring the charm of downtown Huntsville. Browse unique boutiques, specialty shops, and antique stores, while discovering some of the community's favorite destinations. The following downtown businesses will be open and ready to welcome Bearkat families throughout the weekend:

• The Crooked Crown
• Good Ol’ Times
• Splintercraft Artisan Works
• Uptown Vintage Too
• Louise & Oleta’s
• DejaVu Decor
• Bargain Boxx / Simply Seconds
• Mortar & Pestle
• Cell Block Sips & Bakery
• Sam Houston Antique Mall
• Bluebonnet Antiques

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.

Restaurant Discounts
• City Hall Café & Pie Bar:
10% discount with the mention of Bearkat Family Weekend

• The Raven Italian Bistro and Bar:
Use the code ALFRED10 when dining with your family or group of 2–10+ people.

• Bloomin Brews
10% discount when you mention Bearkat Family Weekend

Schedule and event details are subject to change. All registrations and purchases are non-refundable.