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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. 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, community 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! Visit wiu.edu/homecoming for more information. 

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 in the University Union Hotel, (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. For more information and registration, visit wiu.edu/familyweekend.

Dads' Weekend

Student Assistance and Parent Service Center, (309) 298-2092

The WIU Parents and Family Association welcomes dads, grandpas, uncles,and/or any significant male to join students in a fun-filled weekend. Dads’ Weekend centers around two main events: a WIU football game and two golf scrambles, one for the amateur and one for the seasoned golfer. The three-day weekend includes a number of events planned by WIU students and staff. Past events included Baggo; fishing tournament; barbecue sauce contest; basketball challenge; pitch, hit, and run contest; and much more. This weekend is always a great time for you and your WIU students.

Moms' Weekend

Student Assistance and Parent Service Center, (309) 298-2092

The WIU Parents and Family Association welcomes moms, grandmas, aunts, and/or any significant female to campus for a three-day event packed full of fantastic activities. Mom’s weekend kicks off with an opening dinner with a comedian that makes all generations laugh until their sides hurt. Past events included shopping in the Union, “Amazing Race,” cooking classes, live entertainment, Baggo, and so much more. Book early to join students for a weekend matched by no other. Students love to share this weekend.

Parents and Family Association

Student Assistance and Parent Service Center, (309) 298-2092

College life can be exciting, challenging, and facilitate many changes for both families and students. At Western Illinois University, parents are seen as a vital link between the college experience and the students. It is exciting to welcome families as members of the traditional Parents and Family Association (PFA).


The traditional PFA will increase awareness of the resources available to assist families with students’ academics, career, financial, personal, and social needs. PFA is a dynamic organization providing a vital link between students, parents, and families of the University. Families will also learn about the vast array of opportunities designed to help students become more involved in the campus community and enhance cultural experiences. PFA will help bridge the gap by keeping families abreast of WIU services, programs, and campus and community happenings. For membership, a home email is needed. E-mail pfa@wiu.edu along with the student’s first and last name.


PFA Gold is another option for members who want a little more. Gold members receive additional benefits for $20 per year including two WIU PFA t-shirts, a PFA
Gold directory, first opportunity to reserve the Union Hotel rooms, and a copy of the Student Handbook. Gold membership is available online.

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 students in the development of leadership skills and preparation for their role in the larger community upon graduation. OSA provides classes, workshops, activities, and resources to complement students’ academic experience, enhance skills, and give students an appreciation for the value of service and interconnection with groups and individuals. Leadership opportunities include the LEAD Series, Learning to Lead Summer Institute; Learning to Lead Scholars Program; Fall Leadership Conference; White Privilege Conference; and leadership
classes (Introduction to Leadership, 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. Visit wiu.edu/osa 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.