Need to take a break from studies, share a good time with friends or plan ahead for out-of-town guests? Whether you are looking for something to do today or start planning ahead, WSU always has something fun to find. Here are the top WSU events for college students and their guests.
There are several annual events at WSU that set the entire campus abuzz with life for both students and visitors. And it all kicks off every August with the WSU week of welcome.
The week before school starts is fun packed, sun drenched week of moving in at WSU. It is the summer camp and the last hurrah of summer before school starts. Aside from moving into your dorm, there are many events planned to help freshman make new friends and settle in. For those who have already been at WSU, the week of welcome is a huge party with friends. There will be outdoor movies, an all campus picnic, dance parties, a pep rally, and the first up all night of the year. Pullman’s Lentil Parade and Festival also happen during that week of welcome. If you are a current or incoming student, make sure to get to Pullman one week before school starts.
Bring your dad, bring your family! Formally referred to as a fall family weekend, dad’s weekend is a fun gathering centered around a Cougar Football Saturday. Dad’s weekend also includes a big-name concert, comedian or act. Other events are scheduled as well such as the annual pumpkin drop off of Webster tower.
Bring your mom, bring your family! Formally called Spring family weekend, mom’s weekend is filled with more great events then you will be able to attend. Many school departments have something to offer. Moms weekend highlights include a fashion show and a a big-name concert, comedian or act. Other events include an arts and crafts fair, quilt show, and a huge plant sale – just to name a few.
The WSU Spring football game happens in Martin Stadium every 3rd Saturday in April at 3pm. The Crimson vs Gray game is a scrimmage with the chance to get a sneak peek at fall football. Fans and families will also be excited for all the promotions given away at this friendly annual competition.
The first Saturday of May is one of great celebration for those graduating seniors. Get ready for mimosas, lots of hugs, and lots of photos with friends and family.
Seniors who want formal and fun graduation pictures done on campus should plan ahead. The best time to make a reservation with a photographer is December- March of your graduating year.
If you are looking for an experienced graduation photographer ready to bring you the best celebratory solo, family or friend group pictures, I would love to be your photographer! Check out my college graduation page here.
There is no shortage of music at WSU with weekly to almost daily performances. For annual events, high school marching bands come out to compete on Gesa field in October for the best show. In the spring, the WSU School of Music hosts the Festival of Contemporary Artists in Music. Also in the spring is the Winds Band Festival. If you are a fan of jazz or simply interested, head over to the University of Idaho for the famed Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival in April.
The SEB also puts on several Up All Night events each year. You’ll have to keep an eye out for the dates but these are always a fun way to spend a Friday night. There is always food and a concert or comedian along with many other planned activities. Activities such as a massage, tie-dye, a dance, bounce houses or whatever your SEB team has come up with!
CUB movies are one of the best movie going experiences. You will have such a good time because you will be going with dozens of your known and potential friends. That moment in the movie that makes you cheer or cringe will be felt through the whole audience. Those emotions bring that feeling of togetherness often felt at WSU. Head to the CUB on any Friday, Saturday or Sunday to watch a new big hit movie. On Monday, the Student Entertainment Board (SEB) brings back a classic movie for students to enjoy.
The Nuthouse Improv is a hilarious WSU must see show put on by fellow students. The show is almost every Friday night during the school year at 6pm.
At WSU’s Jordan Shnitzer Museum of Art you can take in three new art exhibits each year. Aside from those major exhibits, you can also enjoy workshops, common reading, short film offerings or 1 day traveling exhibits.
As I said previously, there is no shortage of music at WSU. Between the various bands, faculty and student performances, you are sure to find something to attend and enjoy.
WSU has two jazz bands, a wind ensemble, an orchestra, symphonic band, and choirs. Each of these groups usually put on two performances per semester.
The faculty put on solo and group performances weekly. Senior performances also happen as planned and available.
The library atrium, the auditorium in Kimbrough Hall or in the beautiful Bryan Hall are where you will find 90% of the performances. Concerts are a great experience to enjoy in themselves or to bring your homework, and relax while you study.
Walk through the CUB any day to discover events that day or in the coming days. Do this and you will never be without something fun to do.
Go cheer on your team at a WSU sport event! WSU has NCAA Division 1 football, basketball, soccer, volleyball, baseball, track and field, tennis, cross country, golf, rowing, and swimming. With so many teams to cheer on, give each one a try.
Beasley Coliseum has its own calendar of events. Check out their website for daily happenings.
The online WSU events calendar is a great source to find out about many of the bigger events WSU has to offer. The list is constantly updated but does not include many of the school department events.
WSU University Recreation (UREC) Events Calendar
If you are looking for an outdoor event or fitness course, check out the UREC calendar of events
There are many WSU events and event calendars. I hope this article acts as a resource to help you pin down the right event for you.
I am Nate, a wedding and portrait photographer serving WSU and the inland northwest. Most often, you will see me photographing WSU seniors in Pullman and Spokane. You may also find me photographing an on campus wedding or at a wedding throughout the pacific northwest. If you are looking for a high school senior, college grad, engagement or wedding photographer, please reach out. I would love to hear from you!
You may also want to check out the blog links below for more Pullman photo tips.