Family Weekend at Cal State LA

Illustrated graphic for Cal State LA “2026 Family Weekend” featuring a smiling eagle mascot with an arm around a student holding books and wearing a Cal State LA shirt. Text reads “Cal State LA 2026 Family Weekend” and “October 16–18, 2026.” Logos for New Student & Family Engagement, University Housing, and the Center for Student Involvement appear alongside the hashtag #LAFamilyWeekend on a gold background.

 

The inaugural Cal State LA Family Weekend brings students, families, and the community together for a fun and engaging celebration. Enjoy a lively gameday tailgate with food, music, and school spirit before cheering on the National Champion Golden Eagle Volleyball team. Explore mock classrooms for a glimpse into campus academics, and experience dynamic student performances showcasing music, dance, and more. We invite you to stroll through a community farmers market filled with art and local goods, which is a campus tradition. It’s the perfect opportunity to connect, explore, and celebrate the Golden Eagle community.

Your Family, Our Community

Two men wearing conference badges stand facing each other, talking and gesturing, while holding coffee cups against a neutral background.

Family Weekend Package $100

Package includes up to 5 guests

Deadline to purchase your tickets - September 16, 2026

Includes Souvenir Event Badge + Perks

Tailgate Meal | All Access Souvenir Badge | *Family Raffle Ticket | Exclusive Family Weekend Shirt | Theater & Dance Admission | Access to All Event Activities | Access to Gameday Tailgate | *Family Parking Pass | Admission to Volleyball Match | 10% off University Bookstore

*per family

Collage of photos from a Cal State LA Family Weekend event: center image shows two people smiling and taking a selfie, one in a cheer uniform holding pom-poms; surrounding images include a person posing with the eagle mascot, a DJ performing at an outdoor setup, a group of adults smiling and cheering, and a person in Cal State LA gear waving pom-poms near parked cars.

We Are LA!

Graphic featuring the words “COMING SOON” in large, bold white letters with a black outline and shadow effect, displayed against a bright gold and yellow geometric background.

Event Digital Map

Guests are encouraged to view the event map online prior to arrival to help navigate campus and make the most of their Family Weekend ’26 experience. This will allow you to quickly locate check-in, the gameday tailgate, and other event activations with ease.

Friday, October 16

4pm-8pm | U-SU Theater Ticket Booth | U-SU 1st Floor

Arrive early and pick up your Family Weekend badges the day before to skip the lines. You can also grab your exclusive Family Weekend shirts, making it easy to start your weekend stress-free and ready for the fun. 

5PM-8:30PM | 8yrs-18yrs | U-SU Plaza

A special evening filled with games, activities, prizes, and plenty of fun! This is the perfect opportunity for siblings to experience campus life, make memories, and connect with the Golden Eagle community.

As part of the excitement, siblings will have the chance to create their own spirit sign to cheer on the Golden Eagles at the volleyball match on October 17! Hosted by Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) and Housing & Residential Life, this event offers a fun way for families to engage with campus traditions, show their Golden Eagle pride, and enjoy an unforgettable evening together.

Saturday, October 17

9:30am-2pm | Main Walkway | between U-SU and Library

Start your Family Weekend ’26 experience by checking in at the welcome table! Families will receive their souvenir event badges, Family Weekend shirts, event materials, and other special items before enjoying a day filled with Golden Eagle pride and family fun.

10:15AM-12:30PM | U-SU Los Angeles Rooms

The U-SU Plaza brings the energy during Family Weekend, offering a vibrant mix of family-friendly fun, lively student performances, and a variety of event vendors. Visitors will enjoy a strong sense of school spirit that brings the campus community together. 

10:15AM-12:30PM | Main Walkway

Explore the Campus Resource Fair and discover how each department supports students and their families throughout the college journey. Meet staff, ask questions, and learn about the services and programs that help students succeed at Cal State LA. 

10:15AM-12:30PM | U-SU Game Room | U-SU 1st Floor

Visit the U-SU Game Room and challenge your family to some friendly competition. From e-gaming to billiards and more, it’s the perfect spot to relax, have fun, and create lasting memories together during Family Weekend. 

10:15AM-12:30PM | 3yrs-10yrs | U-SU 1st Floor Lobby

Bring the whole family to the U-SU Kids Zone, hosted by the Anna Bing Arnold Children’s Center, for a day of fun crafts and engaging activities. Designed for young visitors, this lively space offers hands-on creativity and playful experiences in a welcoming, family-friendly environment. 

*No drop offs | This is NOT a childcare service

10:15AM-12:30PM | Main Walkway

Visit the Family Weekend Bilingual Booth for support in multiple languages. Friendly staff are available to assist families, answer questions, and ensure everyone feels informed, welcomed, and able to fully enjoy the weekend. (Spanish, _____, and _____) 

10AM-12:30PM | University Bookstore

The Cal State LA Bookstore will be open for families and supporters to pick up Cal State LA merchandise and souvenirs. Family Weekend ticket holders can enjoy a special 10% discount—perfect for grabbing gear and showing off your Golden Eagle pride. 

10:15AM-12:30PM | Main Walkway

Stroll through the Family Weekend Farmers Market, presented by VenaVer, and enjoy a unique shopping experience. Browse a variety of local vendors offering handmade goods, fresh products, and one-of-a-kind finds—perfect for discovering something special while supporting small businesses. 

10:30AM-12:30PM | U-SU Los Angeles Rooms

Step into the Cal State LA experience by attending a mock classroom session designed for families and supporters. Get a firsthand look at what it’s like to be a student—engage in a sample lecture, interact with faculty, and explore the dynamic learning environment. It’s a great opportunity to better understand the academic journey and connect with the campus community. 

11:30AM-12:30PM | U-SU Theater

Attend an inspiring conversation with a distinguished Cal State LA alum and hear firsthand how their university experience shaped their path to success. Gain valuable insights, personal stories, and advice while connecting with the impact and pride of the Cal State LA community. 

12PM-1PM | Alhambra Room | U-SU 3rd Floor

Spanish-speaking families are warmly invited to join a personal diálogo with Cal State LA’s Dean of Students, Dr. Blanca Martinez-Navarro. This welcoming space offers an opportunity to connect, ask questions, and learn more about student support and campus life—en español—while building a stronger sense of community and belonging. 


Se invita cordialmente a las familias de habla hispana a participar en un diálogo personal con la Decana de Estudiantes de Cal State LA, la Dra. Blanca Martínez-Navarro. Este espacio acogedor brinda la oportunidad de conectarse, hacer preguntas y conocer más sobre los recursos de apoyo estudiantil y la vida universitaria—en español—mientras fortalecemos el sentido de comunidad y pertenencia.

12PM-1PM | U-SU Theater | U-SU 1st Floor

Join a panel featuring Cal State LA leadership to learn about the university’s long-term vision and strategic goals. Hear directly from campus leaders, gain insight into future initiatives, and better understand the direction shaping the Cal State LA community. 

10AM-2PM | University Food Court

The Cal State LA Food Court will be open for families and supporters to enjoy a variety of dining options throughout Family Weekend. It’s a convenient place to relax, grab a meal, and spend time together while taking in the campus atmosphere. 

12:30PM-2PM | outside University Gym

Don’t miss the Family Weekend Gameday Tailgate—your pre-game destination for fun, music, and excitement before the volleyball match. Gather with fellow families and supporters, enjoy the lively atmosphere, and show your Golden Eagle spirit before cheering on the team. 

1PM-3PM | University Gym

Get ready for the big game by creating your own sign before the volleyball match! Families and supporters are encouraged to design fun, spirited signs to cheer on the Golden Eagles and help bring extra energy and school pride to the crowd. Hosted by Housing & Residential Life, this activity is a great way to show your support and help create an exciting game-day atmosphere.

2PM | University Gym

Cheer on the Golden Eagles as Cal State LA Volleyball takes on a conference rival in an exciting matchup. Bring your family and supporters to experience the energy, school spirit, and competitive action as the team battles it out on the floor. 

Sunday, October 18

2:30pm | State Playhouse | next to Music Building

Experience the talent and creativity of Cal State LA students by attending The Rent Play, presented by the Department of Theatre and Dance. This powerful and inspiring production brings unforgettable music, compelling storytelling, and outstanding performances to the stage. Family Weekend attendees are encouraged to support our student artists and enjoy an evening of exceptional live theater.

Three side-by-side photos from a Cal State LA event: (left) a group of students and a staff member pose in front of a “Cal State LA” backdrop, some holding pom-poms; (center) two staff members sit behind a table with a “New Student & Family Engagement” tablecloth and informational displays; (right) three adults smile together outdoors, including a person wearing a “Cal State Dad” shirt.

If you have any questions, please contact the New Student and Family Engagement office by phone at (323) 343-3195 or by email at [email protected]. We’re happy to assist and look forward to seeing you soon!