Join us on September 26 and 27, 2025!
We can’t wait to welcome you to campus for a weekend full of community, celebration, and Salem State spirit!
Schedule at a Glance
Family Weekend Check-In
1-3 pm, Ellison Campus Center Lobby
Welcome to Family Weekend at Salem State University! Join us at check-in to receive your event schedule, name tags, and a special welcome gift. Our team will be available to answer any questions and help you get ready for a fun, connection-filled weekend with your Viking. We're excited to welcome you to campus and kick things off together!
Pickleball
1-3 pm, Gassett Fitness Center Rec Courts
Pre-Registration Required
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports both on our campus and nationwide. This program will teach families, supporters, and students the game and allow for friendly competition!
Esports Lounge Drop-In Play
1-3 pm, Ellison Campus Center, ECC 010
Pre-Registration Required
Try out the Salem State Esports Lounge! Open to all students, our esports program helps to engage the campus community and build relationships among those interested in gaming competitively or recreationally.
Pilates Class
1:30-2:15 pm, Gassett Fitness Center Group Ex Studio
Pre-Registration Required
This introduction to mat-based Pilates will focus on core strength, flexibility, and balance. Come join our instructor Annmarie Bedard to find out why Pilates is so popular!
Stretching Class
2:30-3 pm Gassett Fitness Center Group Ex Studio
Pre-Registration Required
This program, led by Alejandro Rubero, program coordinator for fitness and wellbeing, will introduce general full body stretching, provide options to alleviate any aches and pains, and incorporate the benefits of stretching.
Viking Family BBQ
3-5 pm, North Quad
Pre-registration required
Join us for a relaxed afternoon of good food, great company, and Viking pride! This BBQ brings together students, families, and the campus community to enjoy a delicious meal, music, lawn games, and more. It’s a perfect way to unwind and celebrate the Viking spirit!
Viking Family Outdoor Movie in the Lawn
6-9 pm, Marsh Quad
Bring a blanket, grab some popcorn, and enjoy a family-friendly movie under the stars! Our outdoor movie night is a fun and relaxing way to wrap up your first evening on campus. Don’t forget to dress for the weather and bring your Viking spirit!
First Year Lab Performance
7 pm (doors open), 7:30 pm (performance begins); Sophia Gordon Center Main Stage Theatre
You're invited to enjoy the fabulous production our First Year Theatre Arts students have created during their first month at SSU! Directed by Prof. Ginger Eckert, they have devised a unique production based on their collective ideas, talents, and experiences
Family Stargazing at the Collins Observatory
8 pm, Rear of Meier Hall
Explore the night sky with your Viking! As part of Family Weekend, you're invited to a special visit to the Salem State University Collins Observatory. Enjoy guided stargazing through our powerful 12" Classical Cassegrain/Newtonian telescope and learn about the stars and planets from knowledgeable faculty and staff from chemistry and physics.
The observatory is located in Meier Hall and is accessible via the elevator at the rear of the building, closest to the quad. Press level “P” for Planetarium and follow the signs to the observatory.
This unique experience is perfect for both curious minds and stargazing enthusiasts; don’t miss it!
Family Weekend Welcome Check-In Booth
10:30-11:30 am, O'Keefe Complex Main Lobby
Welcome to Family Weekend at Salem State University! Join us at check-in to receive your event schedule, name tags, and a special welcome gift. Our team will be available to answer any questions and help you get ready for a fun, connection-filled weekend with your Viking. We're excited to welcome you to campus and kick things off together!
TAU Sigma (Transfer Honor Society) Initiation Ceremony
11:30 am-12:30 pm, Location TBD
Vikings on the Block: Family Tailgate Party
11 am-4 pm O'Keefe Complex Main Lobby and Parking Lot
Kick off game day with a high-energy family tailgate celebration! Enjoy music, snacks, Viking giveaways, and fun activities for all ages before heading to cheer on our student-athletes. This is the perfect opportunity to connect with other families, students, and campus staff as we celebrate Salem State pride together!
Women's Volleyball Game vs. Framingham State University
12 pm, Twohig Gym, O'Keefe Complex
Men's Soccer Game vs. Framingham State University
12 pm, Alumni Field
Contact Us
Orientation Office
352 Lafayette St.
Salem, MA 01970