Hundreds of parents and friends will visit George Washington’s Foggy Bottom and Mount Vernon campuses Oct. 14-16 for Colonials Weekend 2011.
The weekend kicks off Friday afternoon with myriad events, including lectures from “Classes from GW’s Best,” performances from GW’s Department of Theatre and Dance, and Colonials Invasion, the “biggest show of GW spirit” at the newly renovated Charles E. Smith Center, featuring giveaways and a special-effect-filled introduction of the men’s and women’s basketball teams.
Saturday begins with a special welcome from George Washington President Steven Knapp and Executive Director of Parent Services Rodney L. Johnson at 10 a.m. in Lisner Auditorium.
On Saturday afternoon from 2 to 5 p.m., families and local residents will enjoy pumpkin carving, contests and fall desserts at the Mount Vernon Campus’ annual Octoberfest, the popular outdoor festival organized by the Office of the Dean of Students and the Mount Vernon Programming Council.
That evening, comedian Bill Maher, host of HBO’s “Real Time with Bill Maher,” will entertain GW at 7 p.m. at the Charles E. Smith Center. A limited number of floor seats are still available. Contact the Smith Center box office at 202-994-6050 for more information.
Saturday events will also include campus tours, breakfasts with school deans and musical performances.
Live music at the annual Jazz Brunch on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the Marvin Center first floor will start a day of activities, which includes volleyball and women’s soccer games and the annual Foggy Bottom/West End Neighborhood Block Party from 1 to 4 p.m. on the Eye Street Mall. Visitors can sample a variety of local food and visit craft vendors, listen to musical performances and participate in free health screenings at the popular community event.
Mr. Johnson said Colonials Weekend is a special opportunity for families to reconnect with their children and learn about the university.
“Colonials Weekend gives families a chance to visit with their students and get to know the university, which is especially important for families of freshmen and sophomores,” he said. “It’s a big weekend on campus and for GW.”