Join us on campus for Showtime Family Weekend

Western's campus will host dozens of events
for families and alumni May 14 to 17.

There’s still time to make reservations for Showtime Family Weekend, Western Washington University’s annual spring celebration for families May 14 to 16.

With its student performances, athletic events and off-campus excursions, Showtime Family Weekend is a great time to reconnect with students and get a glimpse of life on Western’s campus.

Register by May 7 at nssfo.wwu.edu/b2b/.

This year’s event will be bigger than ever, happening at the same time as Back 2 Bellingham, a large alumni gathering that includes many events open to families as well, including a keynote speech by noted author Tim Egan, whose talk commemorates the 40th anniversary of Huxley College of the Environment. Egan, who will speak on Saturday, May 15, will be introduced by U.S. Rep Jay Inslee.

There will also be several supervised events planned for 9- to 13-year-olds, including science experiments and recreational activities, so students’ younger siblings can enjoy the weekend, too.

Here are some other family-friendly events to check out:

• Family and Alumni Golf Outing: Join WWU President Bruce Shepard at a casual golf outing and lunch at North Bellingham Golf Course, with $10 from the green fees supporting WWU scholarships.
• EndFair Music Festival: Two days of music and concerts at the Fairhaven Residence Hall complex.
• Planetarium Shows: Washington state’s first fully digital planetarium theatre will offer two shows that weekend: “The Zodiac” and “American Indian Star Lore.” The shows aren’t recommended for children under 8.
• “The Miracle Worker”: WWU Theatre students will perform the classic play about the relationship between Helen Keller, who was deaf and blind, and Anne Sullivan, who helped the child learn to communicate.
• Ridin’ Low in the 3-6-0: One of the largest low-rider shows in the Pacific Northwest will be in South Campus.
• Residence Hall Showcase: All residence halls will be open for self-guided viewing.
• Sculpture Garden tour: WWU’s world famous sculpture collection is 50 years old. Learn more about the 29 sculptures throughout our campus.
• Boating and Bagels on Bellingham Bay: Ride on the 65-foot Snow Goose and learn more about Bellingham Bay during a relaxing two-hour cruise.
• Sea Kayaking: Join experienced student guides from WWU’s Outdoor Center. Kayaks and life jackets are included.
• Kayaking and Canoeing at Lakewood: Check out WWU’s recreational retreat on the shores of Lake Whatcom.
• Relay for Life: Every year, more than 2,000 students, staff and faculty walk WWU’s track to raise funds for cancer research and support services.