It’s that time of year again; the leaves are changing color and the evening air is chilly. For students, visitors, and family members, this signals the start of Fall Festival, which began Monday and will continue through Sunday. Fall Festival is held every year near the end of October, and provides fun and entertaining activities for both students and parents.
For students, Fall Festival provides opportunities to relax and enjoy themselves, despite the reality of midterms looming around the corner. Throughout the week there have been various activities both on and off campus for students to enjoy, which included the annual medallion hunt, two showings of “Batman Begins,” and bowling. This weekend will include a Latin dance party Friday night and comedian Isaac Witty at the coffeehouse on Saturday night.
For parents, Fall Festival provides a chance to catch a glimpse of life at Lawrence. The wide array of activities throughout the weekend is a reflection of the diverse student population and their range of interests. Activities will cover the arts, athletic events, and academics. During the day on Friday, parents are invited to attend classes with students to get a taste of the academic life. Friday will also serve as a Fall Visit Day for prospective students. Events on Friday evening include the women’s volleyball team playing against Northland Bible Baptist College at Alexander Gym and “A Slice of Americana,” the Lawrence Concert Choir concert in Memorial Chapel.
Saturday provides even more opportunities for parents and students to enjoy the weekend. In the morning, mini-courses will be held for interested parents to attend, including “‘Made in China’ and Other Free-Trade Phobias” with Professor Mark Frazier, “Hola!: An Interactive Session about Spanish Language and Culture” with Professor Rosa Tapia, “Fractals and Chaos” with Assistant Professor Eugenie Hunsicker, and “The Clockmaker and the Band Concert: A Preview of Tonight’s Performance” with Assistant Dean Jeff Stannard.
The afternoon’s highlight will be the Lawrence Vikings football game against Grinnell College at the Banta Bowl, with the Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band concert later that evening in the chapel. The Wriston art galleries are also open on both Friday and Saturday for visitors to get a taste of the visual arts at Lawrence.
Whatever activities students and parents choose to participate in this weekend, Fall Festival is an excellent opportunity for everyone to enjoy the fun fall atmosphere, while getting a glimpse of the diverse and busy life at Lawrence.
Fall Festival arrives
