The annual Welcome Week tradition is back, and Ohio University welcomes the Bobcats to their hometown of Athens with a week-long celebration to kick off the new school year.
This year’s event begins Thursday, August 22 and runs through Saturday, September 1. Here are the best events happening on the Athens campus during the week.
Participation fair
One event of Welcome Week is the Engagement Fair, which takes place every year on College Green after first year students have completed their graduation ceremony. The fair hosts over 500 student organisations represented on College Green on 25 August from 3pm to 6pm.
It’s an opportunity for students to explore the clubs, sports teams, and various organizations that OU has to offer. Students can talk to student-led clubs, members of sports teams, and anyone else about why they get involved and what makes their organization special. Students can sign up for an organization or make plans to apply for a team during the fair.
Freshmen should not miss this event. It’s the only time of the school year when they have every opportunity to get involved. Returning students can also attend the fair and learn about opportunities to get involved on campus. If you’re interested in joining an organization, you can get a head start by learning about what OU has to offer on Bobcat Connect.
Party at Ping
This year, OU’s Office of Well-Being and Recreation is hosting a party on the lawn in front of the Ping Center on Saturday, August 24, from 6 to 9 p.m. The party will feature live music and free food from restaurants such as Insomnia Cookies and Papa John’s. Students can also use a 360-degree photo booth to capture memories with friends new and old.
The event is open to new and returning students on campus. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy some food outside of the dining hall, relax with friends, and add something new to your usual Saturday night schedule.
Film about the roof
The Athena Cinema is a gem on Court Street and a popular spot for movie night. This year, the cinema is hosting a rooftop screening of “Midsommar” to welcome students on Wednesday, August 28. The event will be held on the roof of the Athens City Parking Garage at 15 East Washington Street and will begin at 8:30 p.m. OU students are admitted free with their Bobcat ID, and seating will be assigned starting at 7:30 p.m.
This outdoor cinema experience is a great way to relax and unwind during the first week of classes, so grab your friends and enjoy the show!
Welcome weekend parties
If you want to experience the OU party spirit, don’t miss the Welcome Weekend parties. Mill Street is lined with houses hosting parties on Friday, August 23rd and Saturday, August 24th, mostly in the fraternity annexes. Watch social media for locations and start times. The Welcome Weekend parties have a lighthearted atmosphere, and new and returning Bobcats are energized for the new year.
As you hop around Mill Street, remember to be safe and responsible, follow the open container rules, and stay in a group. The Welcome Weekend parties are a highlight every year, but getting into trouble will spoil the whole experience.
Bobcat fireworks
After your first exciting week on campus, you can cap it off with a fireworks display and street party on Saturday, August 31st from 6-8pm at Paw Print Park in South Green. The show promises to be exciting and fun, and the street party will feature free ice cream and live music from a DJ.
This is a great opportunity for every student to end their first welcome week with new friends and an exciting evening show.
@clara_leder
