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Family Weekend

Family Programs

Celebrate the Seahawk journey with a special weekend for families and supporters to connect, explore campus, and make lasting memories!

Save the Date for Family Weekend!
September 25-27, 2026

Registration Information

Family Weekend Registration will open on the Seahawk Family Hub at 12 noon on Thursday, August 20 and will remain open until general registration sells out.

Set up your account today to prepare for registration! 

General Registration Fees

All attendees are required to pay the Family Weekend General Registration Fee before gaining access to register for any additional events or activities.

This fee covers the costs of attending all free events, including our two signature events and supports programmatic costs, including printing, lanyards for each attendee, staffing, parking, and technology fees. 

  • Guests aged 5+: $15
  • Guests under age 5: Free
  • UNCW Students: Free but must be added to your registration

General Registration Fee Waiver

If your student is eligible for a Federal Pell Grant or has an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) of $0 on the FAFSA, we will waive the general registration fees for up to two registrations per student. If you’re unsure whether your student qualifies, they can confirm this information on their mySeaport.

To request a Family Weekend general registration waiver, please contact ihaveaseahawk@uncw.edu after you have registered for family weekend. Our registration system does not allow guests to complete the registration process without paying the general registration fee. After confirming your student’s enrollment and eligibility, we will process a refund of eligible general registration fees for up to two guest registrations per student.

Family Weekend Shirts

Commemorate your Family Weekend experience with an official Family Weekend T-Shirt!

This exclusive design (on a Comfort Colors TEAL shirt!) is a perfect keepsake and a great way to show your UNCW pride all weekend long. 

View this year's design

Family Weekend Gives Back

During Family Weekend, we are hosting a food drive and raffle to benefit Hawk's Harvest, UNCW's on-campus food pantry for students experiencing food insecurity. The goal of Hawk's Harvest is to make sure that no Seahawk goes hungry. We realize how challenging it can be for students to focus on their studies if they are worried about the basic necessities - like how to pay for groceries. While it may only be temporary, that doesn’t mean it is any less real. Hawk's Harvest is available to all currently enrolled UNCW students with a OneCard. We are encouraging families to donate items to help stock the pantry. Donate a minimum of 5 items to be entered into a raffle for a basket full of UNCW swag items!

Donations can include:
  • Canned chunky soups (with and without meat)
  • Pasta/rice and sauce packets
  • Canned pasta (e.g., Chef Boyardee) and easy mac
  • Canned beans (garbanzo, black, pinto, kidney)
  • Fun shaped pasta (e.g., rotini, penne) and flavored jarred sauce – alfredo is a favorite!
  • Condiments and spices (and other pantry/baking items like oil, sugar, flour)
  • Boxes & individual cups of cereal
  • Snacks (donate your favorites - chances are our students will like it too!)
  • Toiletries (e.g., toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, soap, razors)
  • Laundry detergent pods (we put them in bags of five to distribute)
  • New and gently used can openers

Sponsored by Campus Life: Student Community Engagement

Make a gift to Hawk's Harvest

Family Weekend Schedule

View the Family Weekend Visual Schedule below to assist with your planning process! All members of your family who plan to attend ticketed events must purchase a ticket, including your student.

The following two activities are optional add-ons available for purchase through your Family Weekend registration. Their flexible timing allows you to fit them into your family's schedule:

Recreation Center Weekend Pass

Family members and guests aged 16 & up are invited to stay active during Family Weekend with a Campus Recreation Center Weekend Pass ($5 per non-student guest). The weekend pass grants you access to workout at the rec center during the following days/times:

  • Friday, September 25: 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Saturday, September 26: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Sunday, September 27: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM


The Leonard Student Recreation Center creates opportunities for individuals to improve their total fitness, develop healthy lifestyle habits, improve sports and outdoor recreation skills, reduce stress, increase energy levels, improve strength and endurance, realize the positive rewards from an active lifestyle as well as meet and interact with others. Take advantage of working out at the Rec Center during Family Weekend!

Rec Center guest passes are $5 per non-student guest. Passes may be purchased during registration and are required for all non-student guests using the Rec Center during Family Weekend. Individuals must be 16 & up and wear proper shoes/attire for working out. Guests aged 16 & 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian (not a UNCW student) at all times during their visit to any of the LSRC facilities. Hosted by Campus Recreation

Visit Trask Family Farms

3650 Blue Clay Rd, Castle Hayne, NC 28429
Tickets: $15 per person

A ticket provides one-time admission to Trask Family Farms and may be used during any of the following days/times:

  • Saturday, September 26: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Sunday, September 27: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

This fall, make unforgettable memories at Trask Family Farms! Get lost in our exciting three-level corn maze, pick your own beautiful sunflowers and wildflowers, enjoy scenic hay rides, bounce for hours on our giant jump pad, and let the kids have a blast with the Bubble Barn. Treat yourself to our delicious homemade ice cream, then head out to our real pumpkin patch, where you can cut your perfect pumpkin straight from the vine. There's something for every age, making Trask Family Farms the perfect destination for family fun, fall traditions, and picture-perfect moments. We can't wait to welcome you this season! Hosted by Trask Family Farms

ACCESS THE VISUAL SCHEDULE

  • Friday, September 25

    Friday, September 25, 2026

    Family Weekend Check-In
    2:00 PM to 7:00 PM
    Warwick Center Ballroom
    Welcome to Family Weekend, we are so glad you will be joining us for a weekend full of fun and excitement! Check-In will be held at the Warwick Center Ballroom. At check-in, you'll pick up your lanyards for the weekend, family weekend brochure, and any ordered T-shirts! You must check in with us first before attending any family weekend events!

    Hawk's Harvest Donation Drive
    2:00 PM to 7:00 PM
    Warwick Center Ballroom
    Free (5 Donations for Raffle)
    During this year's UNCW Family Weekend, we will be hosting a food drive and raffle to benefit Hawk's Harvest, UNCW's on-campus food pantry for students experiencing food insecurity. Donate at least 5 items to be entered into a raffle for a basket full of UNCW swag items! See above for the most needed items.

    Honors College - Find Out How "YOUR STORY AWAITS"
    3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
    Azalea Coast Room
    Free for Family Weekend Registrants
    You’re invited to an informal drop-in with the UNCW Honors College! Hear from the Honors College Director, who will share a brief overview of the many opportunities available to Honors students at UNCW. Stop by to learn about our exciting programming for the 2026–2027 academic year, meet Honors College staff, connect with other students and families, and get answers to your Honors questions. Light refreshments will be served. Whether you stay for a while or simply stop in to say hello, we would love to meet you! Sponsored by UNCW Honors College

    SIGNATURE EVENT: Family Weekend Kickoff
    3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
    Burney Center Ballroom
    Free for Family Weekend Registrants
    Welcome to Family Weekend! We are so glad you will be joining us for a weekend full of fun and excitement! Stop by our Family Weekend Kickoff to hear some welcome remarks from Vice Chancellor Reed Davis, enjoy some light bites, and mingle with other Seahawk families. This is a floating event and Vice Chancellor Reed Davis will be sharing her remarks at 4:00PM. Sponsored by Transition Programs

    Cape Fear Riverboats Sightseeing Cruise
    4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
    106 S Water St. Wilmington, NC 28401
    $28 per person
    All aboard! Cruise the Cape Fear River for a relaxing sightseeing cruise aboard the Henrietta. Enjoy the view from our covered upper deck or from the air-conditioned lower deck while you enjoy this live, narrated scenic one hour cruise departing from historic downtown Wilmington, NC. You’ll learn about the importance of the Cape Fear River, gain a historical overview of the area from discovery to present times, hear about Hollywood’s use of Wilmington, and learn about the pirate history of the coast. Boarding is at 3:30PM. Drinks and snacks will be available for purchase on the cruise by card only. Hosted by Cape Fear Riverboats

    Crossfire Axe Throwing
    5:00, 6:00, 7:00, and 8:00 PM (1-hour time slots)
    1413 Castle Hayne Rd. Wilmington, NC 28401
    $25 per person; Must be aged 10+ to participate
    Get your adrenaline pumping with an hour of indoor axe throwing that’s safe, exciting, and fun for the whole family! Our projected targets feature interactive games like Tic-Tac-Toe, Connect 4, Zombie Hunt, and more, keeping the competition fresh and entertaining. Pizza, snacks, and beverages are available for purchase during your visit. Participants must be ages 10 and up. Hosted by Crossfire Entertainment

    Crossfire Gellyball+
    5:00 PM and 6:00 PM (1-hour time slots)
    1413 Castle Hayne Rd. Wilmington, NC 28401
    $25 per person; Must be aged 6+ to participate
    Dive into an hour of non-stop indoor action featuring Gellyball, Nerf battles, and other exciting games! Gellyball uses soft, water-based gel beads that deliver all the fun of paintball with minimal impact and no messy paint, making it a great activity for kids and adults alike. Participants must be ages 6 and up. Hosted by Crossfire Entertainment

    Pinspiration Splatter Room
    4:00, 5:00, 6:00, 7:00 PM (1-hour splatter session)
    865 Inspiration Dr. Wilmington, NC 28405
    $25 per person
    Experience the Jackson-Pollock-Inspired Splatter Room™! Suit up in protective gear and fling paint at a canvas to create a unique masterpiece like the artist himself. We provide protective gear such as goggles, shower caps, booties and ponchos for the experience. Plan to remove your shoes, so socks are encouraged. Paint is washable, but we highly recommend wearing clothes you're comfortable in and you don’t mind getting a little paint on, just in case! Note: your masterpiece won’t dry right away, so plan to take your wet canvas with you. Hosted by Pinspiration

    Cape Fear Riverboats Sunset Cruise
    6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
    106 S Water St. Wilmington, NC 28401
    $40 per person
    All aboard! Cruise the Cape Fear River for a relaxing sunset cruise aboard the Henrietta. Enjoy the view from our covered upper deck or from the air-conditioned lower deck while you enjoy this live, narrated scenic 1.5 hour cruise departing from historic downtown Wilmington, NC. You’ll learn about the importance of the Cape Fear River, gain a historical overview of the area from discovery to present times, hear about Hollywood’s use of Wilmington, and learn about the pirate history of the coast while getting to enjoy the Wilmington sunset. Boarding is at 5:30PM. Drinks and snacks will be available for purchase on the cruise by card only. Hosted by Cape Fear Riverboats

    Epic Excursions Sunset Cruise
    5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
    109 Causeway Dr. Wilmington, NC 28401
    $65 per person
    Relax and unwind as you cruise the pristine waterways of Wrightsville Beach during golden hour. Cruise past lush marshes, untouched barrier islands, and scenic inlets while watching for dolphins, seabirds, and other coastal wildlife. This peaceful sunset cruise is the perfect way to take in the natural beauty of the area and create unforgettable memories during Family Weekend. Hosted by Epic Excursions, a UNCW Alumni-Owned Business

    Ghost Walk
    6:30 PM and 8:30 PM (90-minute tour)
    Intersection of Market & Water St.
    $26 per person
    Once North Carolina's largest city, Wilmington has the largest historic district in the state. Journey into the depths of old Wilmington on an adventure to the Cape Fear's most actively haunted locations. Hear eerie tales of ghostly occurrences, including recent ghost encounters. Join us on a family safe, 90-minute journey you will not soon forget. Hosted by Ghostwalk of Old Wilmington

    Crossfire Paintball+
    7:00 and 8:00 PM (1-hour time slots)
    1413 Castle Hayne Rd. Wilmington, NC 28401
    $30 per person; Must be aged 8+ to participate
    Experience the excitement of indoor low-impact paintball, Nerf battles, and other action-packed games! Our low-impact paintballs deliver all the thrills while remaining beginner-friendly. We recommend wearing long sleeves and pants for added comfort. Pizza, snacks, and beverages are available for purchase during your visit. Participants must be ages 8 and up. Hosted by Crossfire Entertainment

    Seahawk Bingo
    7:00 PM to 8:00 PM
    Burney Center Ballroom
    Free for Family Weekend Registrants
    Join us for our annual Family Weekend Seahawk Bingo! UNCWeekends hosts a fun and exciting night of Bingo where you can win UNCW Seahawk prizes and other fantastic giveaways. Make sure to bring random things with you since you never know what we’ll ask for during 'Random Things in Your Pockets' so you can win Campus Life swag bag! Sponsored by Campus Life: UNCWeekends

  • Saturday, September 26, 2026

    Epic Excursions Scenic Coastal Cruise
    8:30 AM and 11:00 AM (2-hour cruise)
    109 Causeway Dr. Wilmington, NC 28405
    $65 per person
    Cruise the scenic waterways of Wrightsville Beach on a relaxing coastal boat ride through the Intracoastal Waterway. Enjoy dolphin watching, beautiful island views, and calm coastal cruising as you take in the natural beauty of Masonboro Island, Mason’s Inlet, and surrounding barrier islands. This peaceful scenic cruise is the perfect way to take in the natural beauty of the area and create unforgettable memories during Family Weekend. Hosted by Epic Excursions, a UNCW Alumni-Owned Business

    Family Weekend Check-In
    9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Warwick Center Ballroom
    Welcome to Family Weekend, we are so glad you will be joining us for a weekend full of fun and excitement! Check-In will held at the Warwick Center Ballroom. At check-in, you'll pick up your lanyards for the weekend, family weekend brochure, any any ordered T-shirts! You much check-in with us first before attending any family weekend events! 

    Hawk's Harvest Donation Drive
    9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Warwick Center Ballroom
    Free (5 Donations for Raffle)
    During this year's UNCW Family Weekend, we will be hosting a food drive and raffle to benefit Hawk's Harvest, UNCW's on-campus food pantry for students experiencing food insecurity. Donate at least 5 items to be entered into a raffle for a basket full of UNCW swag items! See above for the most needed items.

    Brunch at the Shore Dining Hall
    9:00 AM - 12:00 PM floating
    Shore Dining Hall
    $20 per person; Students welcome to use meal swipes
    Join your student for Brunch at the Shore, and experience a thoughtfully crafted, upscale Brunch menu that surpasses the ordinary. Fuel up for a day of exploring UNCW with fresh seasonal ingredients, elevated classics, and a welcoming atmosphere! Hosted by UNCW Dining

    Legacy Pinning Ceremony
    9:30 to 11:00 AM
    Burney Center Ballroom
    Free; Invitation Only
    The UNCW Alumni Association invites legacy students and their families to join us for a special brunch and Legacy Pinning Ceremony celebrating those continuing a proud Seahawk family tradition. Legacy students—those with a parent, grandparent, sibling, aunt, uncle, cousin, or spouse who has attended or is currently attending UNCW—will receive a commemorative pin during the ceremony. Questions about legacy status or the event can be sent to alumni@uncw.edu. Hosted by the UNCW Alumni Association.

    Challenge Course Zip-a-Thon
    10:00, 11:00, 12:00, and 1:00 PM (1-hour zip timeslots)
    Park at Randall Drive Lot, Follow Zip-A-Thon signs to Challenge Course
    $5 per person; Must be aged 10+ to participate
    Looking for some high-flying adventure with your family? Come soar to new heights and take a ride on a 200-foot zip line with Seahawk Adventure’s Challenge Course. Access the high course via a climbing tower and traverse two activity “bridges” to reach the Zip Zone. One more step and you fly through the air like a true Seahawk. Flights are unlimited! Participants must be at least 10 years old and wear closed-toe active shoes. Are you up for the challenge? If you have any questions, please feel free to call 910-962-4052 or email us at: adventure@uncw.edu. Hosted by Campus Recreation

    Pinspiration Splatter Room
    10:00, 11:00 AM, 12:00, 4:00, 5:00, 6:00, and 7:00 PM
    865 Inspiration Dr. Wilmington, NC 28405
    $25 per person
    Experience the Jackson-Pollock-Inspired Splatter Room™! Suit up in protective gear and fling paint at a canvas to create a unique masterpiece like the artist himself. We provide protective gear such as goggles, shower caps, booties and ponchos for the experience. Plan to remove your shoes, so socks are encouraged. Paint is washable, but we highly recommend wearing clothes you're comfortable in and you don’t mind getting a little paint on, just in case! Note: your masterpiece won’t dry right away, so plan to take your wet canvas with you. Hosted by Pinspiration

    Wilmywood Tour
    10:30 AM and 12:30 PM (90-minute tours)
    Intersection of Market & Water St.
    $26 per person
    Join us on a 90-minute action packed walking tour into America's largest living film set! See 100's of film locations, plus movie props & set pieces from some of Wilmywood's biggest hits. Hosted by Ghostwalk of Old Wilmington

    Crossfire Axe Throwing
    11:00 AM, 12:00, 1:00, 4:00, 5:00, 6:00, 7:00, and 8:00 PM (1-hour time slots)
    1413 Castle Hayne Rd. Wilmington, NC 28401
    $25 per person; Must be aged 10+ to participate
    Get your adrenaline pumping with an hour of indoor axe throwing that’s safe, exciting, and fun for the whole family! Our projected targets feature interactive games like Tic-Tac-Toe, Connect 4, Zombie Hunt, and more, keeping the competition fresh and entertaining. Pizza, snacks, and beverages are available for purchase during your visit. Participants must be ages 10 and up. Hosted by Crossfire Entertainment

    Crossfire Gellyball+
    11:00 AM, 12:00, and 1:00 PM (1-hour time slots)
    1413 Castle Hayne Rd. Wilmington, NC 28401
    $25 per person; Must be aged 6+ to participate
    Dive into an hour of non-stop indoor action featuring Gellyball, Nerf battles, and other exciting games! Gellyball uses soft, water-based gel beads that deliver all the fun of paintball with minimal impact and no messy paint, making it a great activity for kids and adults alike. Participants must be ages 6 and up. Hosted by Crossfire Entertainment

    Cape Fear Riverboats Sightseeing Cruise
    11:30 AM and 4:00 PM (1-hour cruises)
    106 S Water St. Wilmington, NC 28401
    $28 per person
    All aboard! Cruise the Cape Fear River for a relaxing sightseeing cruise aboard the Henrietta. Enjoy the view from our covered upper deck or from the air-conditioned lower deck while you enjoy this live, narrated scenic one hour cruise departing from historic downtown Wilmington, NC. You’ll learn about the importance of the Cape Fear River, gain a historical overview of the area from discovery to present times, hear about Hollywood’s use of Wilmington, and learn about the pirate history of the coast. Boarding is 30 minutes prior to the start time. Drinks and snacks will be available for purchase on the cruise by card only. Hosted by Cape Fear Riverboats

    Hawk's Harvest Volunteer Sorting
    12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
    Warwick Center Ballroom
    Free for Family Weekend Registrants
    Join the Hawk’s Harvest team as we gather up the generous donations from our Seahawk families for the pantry, sort them, and put them in storage and on the shelves. You will get a behind the scenes look at how the pantry works, and learn the important role our donation drives and volunteers play in helping our food insecure students be successful. Space is limited and will be offered on a first come, first serve basis! Hosted by Campus Life: Student Community Engagement

    SIGNATURE EVENT: Seahawk Fam Fest
    2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
    Burney Center, Fisher Student Center, & Campus Commons (Courtyard between the two Fishers)
    Free for Family Weekend Registrants
    Join us for a lively afternoon of fun, food, and connection in the heart of campus! Enjoy games, inflatables, live music, special Family Weekend novelties, and delicious snacks from local food trucks. It’s a great chance to experience campus life, make memories with your Seahawk, and connect with fellow families. Sponsored by Transition Programs.

    Parents Council Cookout
    5:00 to 6:30 PM
    Wise Alumni House, 1713 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28403
    Free; Registration Required
    Join the UNCW Parents Council for a cookout, conversation, and connection at the beautiful Wise Alumni House. This gathering is designed for parents who are interested in learning more about the impact philanthropy has on the UNCW student experience. Meet fellow Seahawk families, connect with university leaders, and learn how parents are helping shape opportunities for current and future students through their support. We invite you to learn more about this network of dedicated parent donors. Hosted by the UNCW Parents Council and the Division for University Advancement

    Epic Excursions Sunset Cruise
    5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
    109 Causeway Dr. Wilmington, NC 28401
    $65 per person
    Relax and unwind as you cruise the pristine waterways of Wrightsville Beach during golden hour. Cruise past lush marshes, untouched barrier islands, and scenic inlets while watching for dolphins, seabirds, and other coastal wildlife. This peaceful sunset cruise is the perfect way to take in the natural beauty of the area and create unforgettable memories during Family Weekend. Hosted by Epic Excursions, a UNCW Alumni-Owned Business

    Cape Fear Riverboats Sunset Cruise
    6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
    106 S Water St. Wilmington, NC 28401
    $40 per person
    All aboard! Cruise the Cape Fear River for a relaxing sunset cruise aboard the Henrietta. Enjoy the view from our covered upper deck or from the air-conditioned lower deck while you enjoy this live, narrated scenic 1.5 hour cruise departing from historic downtown Wilmington, NC. You’ll learn about the importance of the Cape Fear River, gain a historical overview of the area from discovery to present times, hear about Hollywood’s use of Wilmington, and learn about the pirate history of the coast while getting to enjoy the Wilmington sunset. Boarding is at 5:30PM. Drinks and snacks will be available for purchase on the cruise by card only. Hosted by Cape Fear Riverboats

    Ghost Walk
    6:30 PM and 8:30 PM (90-minute tour)
    Intersection of Market & Water St.
    $26 per person
    Once North Carolina's largest city, Wilmington has the largest historic district in the state. Journey into the depths of old Wilmington on an adventure to the Cape Fear's most actively haunted locations. Hear eerie tales of ghostly occurrences, including recent ghost encounters. Join us on a family safe, 90-minute journey you will not soon forget. Hosted by Ghostwalk of Old Wilmington

    Crossfire Paintball+
    7:00 and 8:00 PM (1-hour time slots)
    1413 Castle Hayne Rd. Wilmington, NC 28401
    $30 per person; Must be aged 8+ to participate
    Experience the excitement of indoor low-impact paintball, Nerf battles, and other action-packed games! Our low-impact paintballs deliver all the thrills while remaining beginner-friendly. We recommend wearing long sleeves and pants for added comfort. Pizza, snacks, and beverages are available for purchase during your visit. Participants must be ages 8 and up. Hosted by Crossfire Entertainment

    Movie at Lumina Theater
    7:30 PM to 9:30 PM
    Lumina Theater, Fisher Student Center
    Free for Family Weekend Registrants
    Grab some popcorn and join us for a special Family Weekend movie night at Lumina Theater! Enjoy a fun and relaxing evening with fellow Seahawk families as we screen a movie in one of campus’s favorite spots. Sponsored by the Association for Campus Entertainment.

  • Sunday, September 27, 2026

    Epic Excursions Scenic Coastal Cruise
    8:30 to 10:30 AM
    109 Causeway Dr. Wilmington, NC 28405
    $65 per person
    Cruise the scenic waterways of Wrightsville Beach on a relaxing coastal boat ride through the Intracoastal Waterway. Enjoy dolphin watching, beautiful island views, and calm coastal cruising as you take in the natural beauty of Masonboro Island, Mason’s Inlet, and surrounding barrier islands. This peaceful scenic cruise is the perfect way to take in the natural beauty of the area and create unforgettable memories during Family Weekend. Hosted by Epic Excursions, a UNCW Alumni-Owned Business

    Challenge Course Zip-a-Thon
    9:00, 10:00, 11:00 AM, and 12:00 PM (1-hour zip timeslots)
    1413 Castle Hayne Rd. Wilmington, NC 28401
    $5 per person
    Looking for some high-flying adventure with your family? Come soar to new heights and take a ride on a 200-foot zip line with Seahawk Adventure’s Challenge Course. Access the high course via a climbing tower and traverse two activity “bridges” to reach the Zip Zone. One more step and you fly through the air like a true Seahawk. Flights are unlimited! Participants must be at least 10 years old and wear closed-toe active shoes. Are you up for the challenge? If you have any questions, please feel free to call 910-962-4052 or email us at: adventure@uncw.edu. Hosted by Campus Recreation

    Wilmywood Tour
    10:30 AM to 12:00 PM
    Intersection of Market & Water St.
    $26 per person
    Join us on a 90-minute action packed walking tour into America's largest living film set! See 100's of film locations, plus movie props & set pieces from some of Wilmywood's biggest hits. Hosted by Ghostwalk of Old Wilmington

    Crossfire Axe Throwing
    11:00 AM and 12:00 PM (1-hour time slot)
    1413 Castle Hayne Rd. Wilmington, NC 28401
    $25 per person; Must be aged 10+ to participate
    Get your adrenaline pumping with an hour of indoor axe throwing that’s safe, exciting, and fun for the whole family! Our projected targets feature interactive games like Tic-Tac-Toe, Connect 4, Zombie Hunt, and more, keeping the competition fresh and entertaining. Pizza, snacks, and beverages are available for purchase during your visit. Participants must be ages 10 and up. Hosted by Crossfire Entertainment

    Pinspiration Splatter Room
    11:00 AM and 12:00 PM (1-hour splatter session)
    865 Inspiration Dr. Wilmington, NC 28405
    $25 per person
    Experience the Jackson-Pollock-Inspired Splatter Room™! Suit up in protective gear and fling paint at a canvas to create a unique masterpiece like the artist himself. We provide protective gear such as goggles, shower caps, booties and ponchos for the experience. Plan to remove your shoes, so socks are encouraged. Paint is washable, but we highly recommend wearing clothes you're comfortable in and you don’t mind getting a little paint on, just in case! Note: your masterpiece won’t dry right away, so plan to take your wet canvas with you. Hosted by Pinspiration

    Cape Fear Riverboats Sightseeing Cruise
    11:30 AM to 12:30 PM
    106 S Water St. Wilmington, NC 28401
    $28 per person
    All aboard! Cruise the Cape Fear River for a relaxing sightseeing cruise aboard the Henrietta. Enjoy the view from our covered upper deck or from the air-conditioned lower deck while you enjoy this live, narrated scenic one hour cruise departing from historic downtown Wilmington, NC. You’ll learn about the importance of the Cape Fear River, gain a historical overview of the area from discovery to present times, hear about Hollywood’s use of Wilmington, and learn about the pirate history of the coast. Boarding is at 3:30PM. Drinks and snacks will be available for purchase on the cruise by card only. Hosted by Cape Fear Riverboats

    Women's Soccer vs Northeastern
    1:00 PM
    UNCW Soccer Game
    $5 per person; Students free with OneCard
    Come cheer on the UNCW Women’s soccer team as they take on Northeastern! All family weekend visitors are subject to a special discounted rate of $5 with the promo code “FAM26”. Students are free with their student ID. Buy tickets for the game ahead of time or at the entrance! Hosted by UNCW Athletics

  • Family Weekend Community Events

    The events below are scheduled throughout the weekend in the Wilmington and Cape Fear region. These events are not hosted or sponsored by the university but are open to the public.  

    Fourth Friday Gallery Walk

    Friday, September 25
    6:00 - 9:00 PM
    Downtown Wilmington; Various Locations
    On the Fourth Friday of every month, galleries and art spaces in downtown Wilmington open their doors for an after-hours celebration of arts and culture. Explore more than 20 participating galleries and creative spaces throughout the downtown area and discover a wide range of artistic genres including oils, acrylics, watercolors, pastels, metals, ceramics, mixed media, and more. This free, self-guided tour invites you to enjoy rotating exhibitions at your own pace. Many galleries also feature the artist on-site, ready to talk about their work and creative process.

    Sunset Live Music Series

    Friday, September 25
    6:00 - 9:00 PM
    Marina Grill - Port City Marina - The Boatyard
    18 Harnett Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
    Free
    Join the free fun of the exciting riverfront Sunset Concert Series at Port City Marina with Frank Grant! Located at the north end of Wilmington's award winning Riverwalk next to the Port City Marina, come enjoy the tunes of fan favorite bands. Dance the night away, and savor locally sourced seafood and other tasty bites served with your favorite libations. Limited seating is available, but feel free to bring your own chairs for an exciting evening on the water!

    The Hatch Brothers: Blakeslee AF Recreation Concert Series

    Friday, September 25
    6:30 - 8:30 PM
    Blakeslee Air Force Recreation Area
    118 Riverfront Road, Kure Beach, NC 28449
    Free
    Enjoy a free family-friendly concert while the sun sets on the lawn at the Blakeslee Air Force Recreation Area with the Hatch Brothers! Close to both Carolina Beach and Kure Beach, delight in the outdoors, and bring blankets and chairs for the whole family. Pack your picnic or grab a bite from the food trucks to enjoy dinner with the grooves of live music. Some restrictions apply and pets are not allowed. This event is located approximately 19 miles (35 minutes) from UNCW's campus.

    Carolina Beach Market

    Saturday, September 26
    8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
    Carolina Beach Lake Park
    Atlantic Avenue and S Lake Park Blvd, Carolina Beach, NC 28428
    Free
    Grab your friends and family to stroll countless vendors selling homemade goods, artisan crafts, and fresh local produce while you listen to live tunes at Carolina Beach Lake Park. You can also purchase food and drinks from the countless food vendors available on site.

    Riverfront Farmers' Market

    Saturday, September 26
    8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
    Dock Street and S. Front Street; Wilmington, NC 28401
    Free
    Experience the charm of downtown Wilmington at the Riverfront Farmers' Market. Featuring local farmers, bakers, artists, and artisans, the market offers everything from seasonal fruits and vegetables to fresh flowers, seafood, honey, jams, baked goods, and unique handcrafted items. Enjoy a relaxing morning along the river while supporting local businesses and discovering the flavors of coastal North Carolina.

    Oktoberfest on the Beach

    Sunday, September 27
    12:00 to 5:00 PM
    Carolina Beach Pier
    1800 Carolina Beach Avenue N; Carolina Beach, NC 28428
    Free
     Get ready for a family and dog friendly celebration featuring live music with an oompah band, seaside pumpkin patch, stein holding contest, and plenty of special German inspired food and drinks available for purchase. 

     

  • Local Attractions to Visit 

    The local attractions below are great options to round out your Family Weekend experience. 

    Local attractions

    Airlie Gardens

    300 Airlie Rd.
    Wilmington, NC 28403

    Come explore Wilmington's Airlie Gardens with 67 acres of walking paths, formal gardens, seasonal blooms, mighty live oaks, historic structures, and contemporary sculptures.

    Open Daily from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

    Aquarium at Fort Fisher (Discovery Bay)

    3500 Oleander Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403

    While the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher is closed for a multi-year renovation and expansion, the team is ensuring the important connection we cultivate every day between visitors and aquatic ecosystems continues.  Introducing Discovery Bay, a unique aquarium experience at Independence Mall in Wilmington, N.C.

    This complimentary mini aquarium is in the JCPenney Wing, on the Independence Boulevard side of the mall, between Belk and JCPenney.

    Discovery Bay is open Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday noon to 6 p.m. in the JC Penney wing of the mall across from the arcade.

    Battleship NC

    1 Battleship Rd NE
    Wilmington, NC 28401

    The Battleship NORTH CAROLINA Memorial was opened to the public in October 1961 as an authentically restored World War II battleship, a National  Historic Landmark, a museum collecting and interpreting all ships named  NORTH CAROLINA, and a memorial honoring the 11,000 North Carolinians of all branches of service who gave their lives in World War II.

    Visitors are encouraged to explore 9 levels of the ship, including the mess decks, berthing areas, engine room, bridge, Combat Information Center (CIC), and much more!

    Because of tidal flooding, it is always recommended that visitors monitor tide and weather information before visiting low-lying areas of the Cape Fear Coast such as the Battleship.

    Open Daily from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

    Cameron Art Museum

    3201 S 17th St
    Wilmington, NC 28412

    The Cameron Art Museum (CAM) provides a cultural gathering place that enriches the lives of museum visitors and the community through high-quality exhibitions, lifelong learning in the arts, dynamic public programs, and stewardship and interpretation of the collection.

    Open Tuesday - Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

    Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park

    5320 Oleander Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403

    Wilmington’s own Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park offers exciting activities for children and adults of all ages. Come out and enjoy family fun at our Grand Prix go kart track, 18 hole Jungle Golf course, Indoor Climbing Wall, Kids Jungle indoor playground, Alien Invaders Laser Tag arena, and huge Arcade stocked with tons of your favorite gaming titles. Fans of The Summer I Turned Pretty may find familiar scenes from the hit Amazon Prime series.

     

FAQs

Parents, guardians, family members, and family friends are all part of the Seahawk Family and are welcome to attend Family Weekend with their UNCW student(s). We welcome family members of all ages to join us in the festivities, but please note there will not be childcare services offered during the weekend.
You will register for all Family Weekend events through the Seahawk Family Hub with the exception of the Women's Soccer Game and the Parents Council Cookout. The registration links for those events are located in the event description and will be included your Family Weekend confirmation email.
  1. Log into the Seahawk Family Hub OR Click on the “View Registration Details” link in your Family Weekend registration confirmation email
  2. Scroll all the way down to the bottom of the page
  3. Click on “Make additional ticket or product purchases? Click here” 
All Family Weekend sales are final. We will not offer any refunds for family weekend events or t-shirt purchases. Should you have any questions, please contact us at ihaveaseahawk@uncw.edu or (910) 962-3089.

All events take place rain or shine, unless noted otherwise. Rain locations are listed in the schedule of events if applicable. No refunds will be given for events missed due to inclement weather or the inability to travel due to inclement weather.

No, you do not have to attend every event. We have designed Family Weekend to allow you to choose which events appeal to you and your family. We do encourage you to take advantage of all Family Weekend programming to experience UNCW and the Wilmington area.

No, you must purchase all tickets through the Seahawk Family Hub before registration closes. Registration will close when general registration sells out, so we encourage you to register early.

You will receive your Family Weekend materials at check-in in the Burney Center. There will be no physical event tickets. Admission to ticketed events will be verified using a check-in list under the name of the registrant who purchased the tickets. All signature and on-campus events will require a Family Weekend lanyard for entry.

No. Registration is event-based, so if you simply plan to visit your student during the weekend, you do not need to register. However, participation in Family Weekend events, including free events, requires a general registration. We encourage families to register and take advantage of the many opportunities to experience the UNCW community and the Wilmington area.

If you have questions, contact the Office of Transition Programs at (910) 962-3089 or ihaveaseahawk@uncw.edu.

Please contact alumni@uncw.edu with any questions about your Legacy status or the Legacy Pinning Ceremony.

Thank you to our 2026 Sponsors!

Click on the sponsor logo below to visit their site.

Hotel sponsors include exclusive discounts for Seahawk families, automatically applied when booking using the links below.

Teal Sponsors

Navy Sponsors

Gold Sponsors

Contact Us

Transition Programs

Phone: 910.962.3089

IHaveASeahawk@uncw.edu

Fisher University Union
Room 2017

Office Hours:
Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Summer Hours:
Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Friday, 7:30-11:30 a.m.