HERO area
The Weekender highlights free(ish) student-focused social events happening on the University of Nebraska–Lincoln campus on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons and evenings. All students are welcome.
August 27, 28, 29, 30
8:30 pm – 10:30 pm, August 27, 2026
Muppets From Space
Willa Cather Dining Complex Room: Green space/lawn
Bring your blankets, chairs, some snacks, and your friends to enjoy a FREE late night, outdoor movie on a huge inflatable screen! Snacks and beverages provided. Join the Residence Hall Association (RHA) for this classic adventure with the Muppets to save Gonzo and reunite him with his long-last family!
In case of inclement weather, the movie will be moved into the Nebraska Union Swanson Auditorium.
https://unl.campuslabs.com/engage/event/12554810
Details11:00 am – 4:00 pm, August 28, 2026
Fall 2026 Tea Time
Jackie Gaughan Multicultural Center Room: 301
Every Friday, starting on the 28th of August 11am - 4pm to the 18th of December.
Join us each week to enjoy fresh tea! at JGMC room 302
Time: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm, August 30, 2026
Boat Exploration Day
Outdoor Adventures Center
Join this collaboration between Outdoor Adventures, Club Rowing, and Club Sailing at Pawnee Lake where you can try various types of watercraft and learn about the resources available in Lincoln. This is a FREE event for UNL students.
Additional Public Info:
An Engagement activity within Husker Student Power. Learn more: https://go.unl.edu/power.
Starts at 7:05 pm, August 27, 2026
Husker Soccer vs. Omaha
Barbara Hibner Soccer Stadium
Come cheer on Nebraska Soccer as they take on the Omaha Mavericks! It’s our Hounds at Hibner game so be sure to bring your dogs out!
https://huskers.evenue.net/event/WS26/04
Details3:00 pm – 5:00 pm, August 29, 2026
All Are Welcome Reception
Willa Cather Dining Complex Room: Red Cloud Room
A free social event to foster community bonding as the new academic year begins. It is an excellent opportunity for new and current international students, scholars, alumni and staff/faculty to meet and learn from one another.
Attendees will engage with one another through fun activities like Human BINGO, Husker Dialogue playing cards, and Culture Tags. Winners will receive prizes from some of our amazing campus partners.
Free to attend and open to all.
Full details can be viewed at https://studentculture.unl.edu/all-welcome/.
DetailsTime: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm, August 30, 2026
Learn to Ride Clinic
Outdoor Adventures Center
Regardless of skill level, come meet other bike enthusiasts on campus and learn about the biking services on campus. These introductory events are free and will show routes around Lincoln along with some biking basics.
Additional Public Info:
An Engagement activity within Husker Student Power. Learn more: https://go.unl.edu/power.
Starts at 7:05 AM, August 28, 2026
Life in Lincoln: Husker Night at the Ballpark
Haymarket Park
Get ready for an evening of fun, community, and Husker spirit at Husker Night at the Ballpark! Join fellow students, faculty, and staff for a memorable night at Haymarket Park as we cheer on the Lincoln Saltdogs.
Important RSVP Information:
All attendees must RSVP through NvolveU to receive ticket access. After registering, you will receive an email sent to your university email account with detailed instructions on how to claim your ticket for the game. Be sure to RSVP early, as tickets may be limited.
*Faculty and staff are welcome to join us but need to purchase their tickets from the Saltdogs at their website using the promo code HUSKER .
https://unl.campuslabs.com/engage/event/12500625/rsvp
Details10:30 am – 11:30 am, August 30, 2026
Yoga at the Sheldon
Sheldon Museum of Art
Sheldon Museum of Art and Campus Recreation are partnering to offer an hour-long yoga class, appropriate for all levels, at the museum. The class is free and open to the public, but space and equipment is limited. Please bring your own mat, towel, or blanket. Doors to Sheldon open at 10:20 am.
https://crec.unl.edu/activities/activities/group-fitness/
DetailsSeptember 3, 4, 5
Time: 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm, September 3, 2026
Popcorn Pop-Up
Nebraska Union Room: The Crib
The best hour of the week! Every Thursday from 3 to 4 p.m. pop into The Crib for an afternoon social hour with 100s of other Huskers.
It’s free and every student, staff, and faculty is welcome.
Snack on fresh-popped popcorn directly from the kettle. Join in the activity while learning about campus organizations and departments. Mingle with friends and new acquaintances.
**********
What to expect:
Fun, fellowship, laughter, friends, and smiles.
There will always be fresh popcorn, including special mix-ins.
Details6:00 pm – 8:00 pm, September 4, 2026
Craft Night at Sheldon
Sheldon Museum of Art
Join us for Craft Night at the Sheldon, a creative and relaxing evening at the Sheldon Museum of Art!
From 6–8 PM, explore your artistic side with a variety of hands-on craft activities, including painting tote bags, designing charm jewelry, creating macramé keychains, and painting your own custom coasters. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just looking to try something new, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Throughout the evening, the Sheldon Museum will remain open, giving you the unique opportunity to explore the galleries while you create. Enjoy a welcoming atmosphere with music, creativity, and plenty of opportunities to make something uniquely yours.
Bring your friends, unwind, and leave with handmade pieces you’ll love!
DetailsTime: 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm, September 3, 2026
Learn to Ride Clinic
Outdoor Adventures Center
Regardless of skill level, come meet other bike enthusiasts on campus and learn about the biking services on campus. These introductory events are free and will show routes around Lincoln along with some biking basics.
Additional Public Info:
An Engagement activity within Husker Student Power. Learn more: https://go.unl.edu/power.
11:00 am – 2:00 pm, September 3, 2026
East Campus First-Gen Welcome
Nebraska East Union Room: NEU 1st Floor Outside of the Dining Center
Kick off the semester by celebrating the first-generation student community! Stop by the East Campus Union between classes to pick up a free First-Gen T-shirt, make a custom button, snap a photo, and learn more about what it means to be a first-gen college student.
DetailsTime: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm, September 4, 2026
September First Friday at Sheldon Museum of Art
Sheldon Museum of Art
Start your weekend and celebrate the start of the school year at Sheldon Museum of Art. This month the museum is open until 8 p.m. Admission is always free and everyone is welcome.
Explore the new fall exhibitions. Sketch in the galleries. Join a tour: Remembering Modern Art tour at 5:30 p.m.; drop-in tour at 6 p.m. Complete an art scavenger hunt to be entered to win a prize.
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm, September 4, 2026
First Friday at Great Plains Art Museum
Great Plains Art Museum
The Great Plains Art Museum is open late Sept. 4, 5-7 p.m. with three exhibitions and light refreshments. Meet the three artists involved in “Elsewhere / The Prairie Was Ours” during the event in the Lower-Level Gallery.
DetailsSeptember 10, 11, 12, 13
Starts at 7:05 pm, September, 10, 2026
Husker Soccer vs. Indiana
Barbara Hibner Soccer Stadium
Come cheer on the Nebraska Soccer team as they take on the Indiana Hoosiers!
https://huskers.evenue.net/event/WS26/05
Details3:00 pm – 4:00 pm, September 10, 2026
Popcorn Pop-Up
Nebraska Union Room: The Crib
The best hour of the week! Every Thursday from 3 to 4 p.m. pop into The Crib for an afternoon social hour with 100s of other Huskers.
It’s free and every student, staff, and faculty is welcome.
Snack on fresh-popped popcorn directly from the kettle. Join in the activity while learning about campus organizations and departments. Mingle with friends and new acquaintances.
**********
What to expect:
Fun, fellowship, laughter, friends, and smiles.
There will always be fresh popcorn, including special mix-ins.
5:30 pm – 8:30 pm, September 11, 2026
Life in Lincoln: Outdoor Challenge Course
6900 W/ Superior St, Lincoln, NE
Ready to meet other UNL students, be outside, and have some serious fun? At the UNL Challenge Course, you’ll jump into a series of engaging, ground‑based group activities designed to spark laughter, and stretch your problem‑solving muscles in a supportive, low‑pressure environment.
No experience needed—just bring your curiosity, your willingness to try something new, and your best “let’s‑do‑this” attitude.
Wear clothing appropriate for the weather and wear closed toed shoes.
If this is something you'd love to try out, please RSVP by 9/5/26 and fill out the waiver!
DetailsSeptember 17, 18, 19, 20
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm, September 17, 2026
Popcorn Pop-Up
Nebraska Union Room: The Crib
The best hour of the week! Every Thursday from 3 to 4 p.m. pop into The Crib for an afternoon social hour with 100s of other Huskers.
It’s free and every student, staff, and faculty is welcome.
Snack on fresh-popped popcorn directly from the kettle. Join in the activity while learning about campus organizations and departments. Mingle with friends and new acquaintances.
**********
What to expect:
Fun, fellowship, laughter, friends, and smiles.
There will always be fresh popcorn, including special mix-ins.
Details10:30 am – 3:30 pm, September 19, 2026
Life in Lincoln: Zoo Fun!
Lincoln Children's Zoo
Get ready to explore one of Lincoln’s most exciting attractions—the Lincoln Children’s Zoo! Join Life in Lincoln and Students with Children for a fun and relaxed outing where you’ll have the freedom to wander, discover, and experience the zoo at your own pace.
Whether you want to see your favorite animals, check out interactive exhibits, or simply enjoy a day outdoors with friends, this is the perfect opportunity to explore more of what Lincoln has to offer.
Don’t miss this chance to connect with others, the first 65 students with children to RSVP are eligible to receive a free ticket. This includes one child. Students must be at the zo by 10:30 to recieve their ticket!
DetailsSeptember 24, 25, 26, 27
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm, September 24, 2026
Popcorn Pop-Up
Nebraska Union Room: The Crib
The best hour of the week! Every Thursday from 3 to 4 p.m. pop into The Crib for an afternoon social hour with 100s of other Huskers.
It’s free and every student, staff, and faculty is welcome.
Snack on fresh-popped popcorn directly from the kettle. Join in the activity while learning about campus organizations and departments. Mingle with friends and new acquaintances.
**********
What to expect:
Fun, fellowship, laughter, friends, and smiles.
There will always be fresh popcorn, including special mix-ins.
Details6:30 pm – 11:00 pm, September 25, 2026
Explore the Railyard
Railyard
Spend the evening exploring Lincoln’s vibrant Railyard District, located in the heart of the Historic Haymarket. With a variety of restaurants, patios, and gathering spaces, it’s the perfect place to enjoy dinner, grab a drink, or relax outdoors and take in Nebraska’s beautiful fall weather.
The Railyard is just a short walk from campus and offers easy access to the shops, restaurants, and attractions throughout the Haymarket District. No registration is required.
https://downtownlincoln.org/go/railyard
Details10:00 am – 12:00 pm, September 26, 2026
Homecoming 5K Fun Run
Nebraska Union Room: Plaza
Celebrate homecoming week with this FREE untimed 5k event. Whether you choose to run, jog, or walk participants of all fitness and experience levels are welcome. This event is designed to promote health, community, and an enjoyable outdoor experience.
Register online starting August 17th, 2026.
https://unl.dserec.com/online/cr/programs/14/program-classes-grid/instance/1555
Details5:00 pm – 7:00 pm, September 25, 2026
Fiesta on the Green
Nebraska Union Room: Memorial Plaza
Enjoy a lively evening filled with vibrant art, music, dance, and delicious food to honor the history, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans.
A signature annual family-friendly event at UNL celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month.
Free to attend. Open to all students and public.
** Specific entertainment, food and events details to be announced closer to the event date.**
Full details can be viewed at https://studentculture.unl.edu/fiesta/.
TBD, September 26, 2026
Husker Volleyball Watch Party
Willa Cather Dining Complex Room: Red Cloud Suite - 1st Floor
Join us with your parents and family as we cheer on the Husker Women’s Volleyball team vs. Ohio State at the RHA Husker Volleyball Watch Party!
Open to: Registered Family Weekend Participants (Must show registration confirmation email at entry)
Bring your Husker spirit and settle in for the game on our large projector screen with comfortable seating, the perfect setting to experience every serve, spike, and victory point with fellow fans!
Light snacks and refreshments provided by Pepsi
Event Access:
- Families will be asked to present their Family Weekend Confirmation email (from: strategicevents@unl.edu) digitally or printed to gain entry.
- Students present your NCard Student ID
Don’t miss this fun and spirited gathering. Go Big Red!
9:00 am – 11:00 am, September 27, 2026
Family Weekend Farewell Brunch
Willa Cather Dining Complex
Saying goodbye is hard, but brunch makes it better! Join other families at the Willa Cather Dining Complex for a complimentary farewell brunch. Mingle, eat, and chat about your favorite memories from your visit to UNL.
Event Access:
- Families will be asked to present their Family Weekend Confirmation email (from: strategicevents@unl.edu) to gain entry.
- All students with their family will be granted access to the Farewell Brunch as a part of Family Weekend.
TBD, September 26, 2026
Husker Football Watch Party | Nebraska vs. Michigan State
Watch your Nebraska Husker football team tackle the Michigan State Spartans, live on the stadium’s big screen. Students, Families, Faculty, and Staff will have the full stadium experience; sit right on the field or in the stadium seats, concessions are open, photo booth, and more!
Event Details:
- Gates open: TBA
- Event is FREE to all students with NvolveU App, Families will show ‘Family Weekend’ registration email, and Faculty & Staff with NCard.
*In the event of rain or severe weather this event will be canceled
Hosted by Student Leadership, Involvement, & Community Engagement; Campus Night Life
Additional Public Info:
Event time will be announced when the game time is scheduled.
TBD, September 26, 2026
Family Weekend Picnic
Nebraska Union Room: Outdoor Plaza - North Side
REGISTRATION OPENS SEPTEMBER 1, 2026 AT 8 A.M. CST
Step outside on a gorgeous fall afternoon for a BBQ picnic with your fellow Husker families and students. Play lawn games and listen to music all while enjoying a delicious prepared BBQ meal. This free event includes an info booth hosted by members of the UNL Parent & Family Association.
- Register Here: TBA
- Registration closes: September 23 at 5 p.m. CST
Event Access:
- Families will be asked to present their separate picnic event confirmation upon entry
- Students present your NCard Student ID
Please note that a separate event registration is required
Details10:30 am – 11:30 am, September 27, 2026
Yoga at the Sheldon
Sheldon Museum of Art
Sheldon Museum of Art and Campus Recreation are partnering to offer an hour-long yoga class, appropriate for all levels, at the museum. Yoga is a spiritual practice that connects the mind, body, and breath through physical postures (asanas). Breathing exercises and meditation take place to promote mindfulness and listening to the body. The class is free and open to the public, but space and equipment is limited. Please bring your own mat, towel, or blanket. Doors to Sheldon open at 10:20 am.
https://crec.unl.edu/activities/activities/group-fitness/
DetailsSept. 28, Oct 1, 2, 3, 4
8:00 pm – 10:00 pm, September 28 2026
Showtime
Coliseum
Come join us for a fast-paced and lively show as student organizations, fraternities, and sororities compete against each other with group performances full of music, dancing, and fun for Homecoming competition points!
Doors will be open at 7:00pm for you to come in, the event will begin at 8:00pm.
We will be utilizing Event Pass to track Audience Participation points. Event Pass is an easy way for you to check in your your phone. Make getting into the event quick by saving the Event Pass on your phone prior to the event.
Details11:30 am – 1:00 pm, October 1, 2026
First Generation Nebraska: Fuel Up
Love Library North & Link
Enjoy free drinks and snacks and socialize with other first-gen students.
https://executivevc.unl.edu/evc/initiatives/first-generation-nebraska/
Details5:30 pm – 7:00 pm, October 2, 2026
Life in Lincoln: No-Bake Delights
University Health Center Room: Room 121
Come join Life in Lincoln for a fun and interactive cooking class in collaboration with UNL’s very own Ellyn McCarter! In this hands-on session, you’ll learn how to make delicious, no-bake snacks that are simple, affordable, and perfect for busy students.
Whether you’re living in a dorm, apartment, or house, these easy recipes require minimal equipment and ingredients, making them accessible for everyone. You’ll walk away with new snack ideas, helpful tips, and the confidence to create quick treats anytime.
Bring a friend, meet new people, and enjoy some tasty creations along the way!
Please RSVP here to ensure safe foods for all!
https://unl.campuslabs.com/engage/event/12514508/rsvp
Details3:00 pm – 4:00 pm, October 1, 2026
Popcorn Pop-Up
Nebraska Union Room: The Crib
The best hour of the week! Every Thursday from 3 to 4 p.m. pop into The Crib for an afternoon social hour with 100s of other Huskers.
It’s free and every student, staff, and faculty is welcome.
Snack on fresh-popped popcorn directly from the kettle. Join in the activity while learning about campus organizations and departments. Mingle with friends and new acquaintances.
**********
What to expect:
Fun, fellowship, laughter, friends, and smiles.
There will always be fresh popcorn, including special mix-ins.
Details