Family Weekend

Family Weekend 2026 schedule of events:

All times and locations are subject to change.

Friday, September 25 

7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. 

Stargazing at Vollink Observatory

7:30 p.m.

SEMO Symphony Orchestra: Pops in the Park!

Dan Cotner Amphitheater in Capaha Park - 1400 Broadway Street. Free Event. Back by popular demand! Join the Southeast Missouri State University Symphony Orchestra for an evening of Broadway favorites and patriotic classics. This concert is presented free of charge for our local community. See all upcoming SEMO Symphony events online!

Saturday, September 26

10 a.m. - noon

Tours of Academic Hall dome

Check in on the main level of Academic Hall
Have you ever wondered how far you can see from the top of the Dome in Academic Hall? Attend one of the tours and find out for yourself. Make a lasting memory and add your name to the Dome! Tours end promptly at noon, so please arrive early.

10 a.m. - 1 p.m. 

sac Presents: Family Weekend fair

Henderson Green Space - 388 N. Henderson by Visitor Parking Lot
Student Activities Council proudly presents an all-ages fair experience at the Henderson green space, located across the street from the University Center. Visit the Petting Zoo, play classic carnival games, and a cool glass of lemonade. Follow SAC on Instagram for more information on all their events. 

10 a.m. - 1 p.m. 

Solar observation and tours of Vollink Observatory

Park at the Show Me Center, observatory near Greek Village
Returning for 2026, take a tour of the Vollink Observatory and learn more about solar telescopes.

10 a.m. - 2 p.m. 

Kent Library, Main level

Kent Library is located at 929 Normal Ave. 
More details coming soon!

10 a.m. - 2 p.m. 

welcome tent and Family friendly activities

10 a.m. - 2 p.m. 

The Beanery - We proudly serve

University Center, third floor, exterior entrances at Normal Ave and Henderson St
Need your chai tea latte or an espresso shot? Visit the recently updated venue, The Beanery, to purchase your favorite Starbucks drinks or try a Dirty Soda!

11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. 

Family Picnic with a visit from the Hodsons

Front of Kent Library Portico, Normal Avenue
Menu:
Entrées: Pulled Pork with Bun, Veggie Burgers, BBQ Glazed Chicken
Sides: Caesar salad, Mac and Cheese, BBQ Baked Beans, Elote Sweet Corn Salad, Assorted Bagged Chips
Desserts: Cookies, Apple Cobbler
Drinks: Iced Tea, Lemonade, Water

Cost:
SEMO Student with Meal Plan: one meal swipe 
Others: $9 per person, single-trip buffet 

4 p.m. 

Football Tailgate 

In front of Houck Stadium
Kick off the football game with appearances by the Southeast Missouri State Marching Band, Sundancers, Cheerleaders, and Rowdy! Also, cheer on the football team as they stroll around the stadium in the Redhawk Walk two hours before kickoff. Personal tailgating space is available in the Wehking Alumni Center parking lots.

6 p.m. 

Home Football vs. university of West Florida 

Houck Stadium
Come cheer on your Redhawks Football team as they battle the West Florida Argonauts!
Online sales of single-game tickets go live August 3, 2026. Season Tickets On Sale now! Purchase SEMO Football tickets online
Phone: 573-651-2113; Email: tbartels@semo.edu. Visit the SEMO Redhawks online.

Community events

Celebrate with the extended Redhawk family and soak up the charm of Cape Girardeau!

Saturday | 8 a.m. - Noon

Riverfront Market
A downtown farmer's market hosted by Old Town Cape, featuring local produce and farm goods, artisan crafts, hot foods, art, and live music. The market is located at 35 S. Spanish Street.  

Saturday | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

A Day on the River
Hosted by the Cape County Conservation Nature Center at the Riverfront Park.
Discover what the river has to offer you! Hands-on activities will teach you the importance of the Mississippi River and the surrounding wetlands. This event is fun for the entire family, featuring live river animals and free boat rides on the Mississippi with Missouri Department of Conservation river scientists. Boat rides are first-come, first-served. This event is located at Riverfront Park, depending on river levels.