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Special Events and Activities

Homecoming

Office of Student Activities, (309) 298-3232
As the largest annual event on Western Illinois University's Macomb campus, Homecoming week spans eight days and kicks off with Spirit Day at MacKenzie Field. The week includes Royalty voting, Paint the Town, Dec the Campus, a boat regatta, a variety show, and a "Yell Like Hell" pep rally where student organizations compete for points to win Homecoming trophies and awards. The celebration, focused toward visiting alumni, local communty members, and students, culminates with game day activities including a parade, alumni events, tailgating, and the Leatherneck football game. Join in the fun and take part in this exciting Western Illinois University tradition!

For accommodations, contact the Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Development Corporation at (309) 837-4855 or consult the Macomb telephone directory. Limited on-campus accommodations are available at the University Union, (309) 298-1941.

Family Weekend

Office of Student Activities, (309) 298-3232
Family Weekend is a three-day event in the fall when the campus welcomes parents and families of Western Illinois University students. This weekend includes a number of events planned by the student-run University Union Board in conjunction with other campus offices. Past events have included a golf outing, trivia contests, a picnic, and comedians. This weekend is always a great time as the University and community come together to welcome families to campus.

Moms' Weekend

Student Assistance and Parent Service Center, (309) 298-2092
The WIU Parents and Family Association welcomes moms and/or any significant female to campus for the seventh annual Moms' Weekend, which provides an excellent opportunity for families to engage with their student, the campus, and Macomb community. This weekend is packed with activities including the annual Macomb Balloon Rally and campus-based events such as cooking classes, bowling, “Amazing Race” WIU Style, live entertainment, and much more. The weekend is scheduled at the beginning of the academic year to assist your student with the transition to campus.

Dads' Weekend

Student Assistance and Parent Service Center, (309) 298-2092
The WIU Parents and Family Association welcomes dads and/or any significant male to join students in a fun-filled weekend. Over the last six years, Dads' Weekend has centered around a 200-person, nine-hole golf scramble and other on-campus activities such as nine pin-no tap bowling challenge, movies, a barbeque cooking contest, and much more. This weekend is scheduled at the end of the semester to provide an opportunity to take a carload of your student's supplies home for the summer.

Parents and Family Association

Student Assistance and Parent Service Center, (309) 298-2092
The Parents and Family Association (PFA) at Western Illinois University provides parents an opportunity to be more informed and actively involved with their student’s success. The association promotes communication and interaction between Western Illinois University and family members of students. Periodic newsletters keep members updated about resources, services, and upcoming activities and events. PFA provides two annual scholarships to qualified members’ students. Parents and families have always been an integral part in encouraging and supporting students’ success in college. With this in mind, all family members of current Western Illinois University students are invited to be a part of this association. Visit the Parents and Family Association Facebook page, for campus events and activities and to connect and reconnect with other WIU families.

Leadership Opportunities

Office of Student Activities, (309) 298-3232
The Office of Student Activities (OSA) provides an array of programs, services, and experiences to assist you in the development of your leadership skills and prepare you for your role in the larger community upon graduation. OSA provides classes, workshops, activities, and resources to complement your academic experience, enhance your skills, and give you an appreciation for the value of service and interconnection with groups and individuals. Leadership opportunities include TEAMLEAD (Together Everyone Achieves Mentoring, Leadership, Empowerment, and Development), a leadership programming organization; Learning to Lead Summer Institute; Learning to Lead Scholars Program; Fall Leadership Conference; White Privilege Conference; and leadership classes (Introduction to Leadership 101, Leadership Seminar, or Greek Leadership).

In addition, WIU has more than 200 student organizations on campus. Students are encouraged to join an organization and become active members of the campus community. Check out the OSA website, for more information.

Macomb and Surrounding Area Events

Macomb Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, (309) 833-1315
Macomb Events
There is a lot to do in west-central Illinois! Some annual favorites include the Macomb Balloon Rally, Argyle Gas Engine Show and Flea Market, and Macomb Heritage Days. There are also many scenic and historic sites, as well as cultural events, in the area.