Preparations Underway for Colonials Weekend 2016

More than 50 events for GW community to celebrate university pride.

September 20, 2016

Colonials Weekend a capella group

Colonials Weekend 2016 will feature student performances such as Acapellapalooza. (Logan Werlinger/GW Today)

Although the new academic year is just beginning, the university is already preparing for this year’s Colonials Weekend.

Colonials Weekend, the annual celebration of the George Washington University community for students, families and friends, will be held Oct. 14-16.

“We are so excited that this year’s Colonials Weekend will showcase the student experience,” said Tracy Arwari, director of GW’s Office of Student Support and Family Engagement. “Colonials Weekend is one of the highlights of our year, and the programming we have planned has something for everyone.  Families will be able to attend a variety of events—from athletics to community events, local excursions and artistic performances.”

With more than 50 events, attendees can cheer on GW’s student athletes and dance groups during the Colonials Invasion spirit rally; carve pumpkins at the Vern Harvest; explore the Foggy Bottom neighborhood on a historical tour; head off campus for one of many field trips to regional attractions like the U.S. Naval Academy in Maryland or George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate in Virginia; enjoy the smooth sounds of GW’s jazz band over brunch; attend student group-sponsored events like La Fiestasa, a celebration of Latino heritage with authentic food and music; and mingle with the community and GW President Steven Knapp at the 14th annual Foggy Bottom/West End Neighborhood Block Party.

This year, Colonials Weekend will also showcase student talent. GW Band will perform a concert on Oct. 15 at 3 p.m. in Lisner Auditorium. Acapellapalooza will be the headliner, featuring performances by GW a capella groups at 8 p.m., also in Lisner Auditorium. The events are co-sponsored by the Department of Music, the Center for Student Engagement and the Office of Student Support and Family Engagement. Ticket information will be released soon.

(Logan Werlinger/GW Today)


“Colonials Weekend 2016 will give attendees a sense of the vibrancy and diversity of our student talent and will be a chance for students to shine in the spotlight,” said Tim Miller, associate dean of students.

Attendees should register for Colonials Weekend online and can customize their weekend at GW by browsing the schedule of events.