Join us for one of Samford University’s most cherished traditions. Family Weekend offers students and their families an opportunity to connect, explore campus life and celebrate the Bulldog spirit. Through a weekend filled with special events, meaningful fellowship and Samford traditions, families can experience firsthand the vibrant community their students call home. From academic showcases to athletic events and worship services, Family Weekend is designed to strengthen the bond between students and their loved ones while fostering a deeper connection to the university’s mission and values.
Family Weekend 2026: A Magic City Celebration
From Sept. 25-27, Samford will come alive as we celebrate and highlight our campus and hometown. Events begin at 2 p.m. on Friday.
Schedule of Events
Friday
- 2-4 pm. Hodges Chapel Tours
- 2-4 pm. Samford Abroad Fair
- 3:30 p.m. Sibling Tour
- 4 p.m. Planetarium Show
- 3:30-4:30 p.m. Pops with the Prez
- 5-8 p.m. Food Trucks/ Yard Games/ Concert
- 5:30 A Capella Choir Vespers
- 5:30 p.m. Planetarium Show
- 6 p.m. Soccer vs. Mercer
- 6:30 p.m. Volleyball vs. ETSU (Purchase Tickets Here)
- 8:30 p.m. Pep Rally
Saturday
- 6:45 a.m. Prayer Walk
- 7:10 a.m. Student-Led Worship Service
- 8 a.m. Samford Parents Association Annual Meeting
- 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Magic City Pop-up Market
- 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Tailgate
- “Taste of the States” Parent Tents
- New Student Tent
- Student Organization Tents
- Greek Life Tents
- Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q tent
- 12:30 p.m. Bulldog Walk
- 2:30 p.m. Football (Purchase Tickets Here)
- 6:30 p.m. Volleyball vs. ETSU (Purchase Tickets Here)
Sunday
- Attend church with your son or daughter.
- 2 p.m. Hymn Sing
- 2 p.m. School of Nursing White Coat Ceremony
Registration Opens mid-August 2026.
T-shirt and button orders are now open for Family Weekend!
This year, we have one T-shirt design to celebrate the theme, as well as a button for many of our states and regions.
Orders close August 23, so order today! All items will be shipped to your home.
T-Shirt and Button Orders Football & Volleyball Tickets
Coming from out of town? Explore the Best of Birmingham, in this parent-reviewed list of hotels with Samford discounts, restaurants and more.
