Family Day brings together students and loved ones

It was a beautiful fall day at Eastern Connecticut State University on Oct. 4 as students and their families gathered for the annual Family Day celebration. Hosted by the Office of Student Activities, Family Day invites members of the campus community to share in their Eastern experience with loved ones through a day filled with fun activities. 

On Webb Lawn, families could jump around in the “Family Fun Zone,” an area filled with multiple inflatable amusements. They were able to race each other in a bungee run, battle it out in the jousting area, or test their agility on the obstacle course.

For the more relaxed crew, pumpkin painting was a fun, calm alternative. Later in the day, families were invited to showcase their backyard gaming skills in a cornhole tournament.

Meanwhile, across campus, the Student Center and Fine Arts Instructional Center (FAIC) were abuzz with activities as families explored a variety of performances, events, and a barbecue-style buffet meal. Others made memories taking pictures on the giant Eastern lawn chair.

The cheerleading team, competitive dance team, K-Pop club, J’Quo dance club, and East Harmonies brought energy to the FAIC Amphitheater with music and performances. Families also lined up to have caricatures drawn or to test their swing at the virtual golf simulator in the parking lot.

Inside the Student Center, guests gathered to play bingo and compete for various prizes such as Eastern swag, a s’mores-making bucket, a taco kit, and a wellness and relaxation kit.

In the afternoon, the FAIC Concert Hall held the Eastern Music Showcase, featuring multiple performances from the Eastern Concert Chorale, Eastern Chamber Singers, and the Eastern Percussion Ensemble. A jazz performance from the 3 O’clock Jazz Band followed.

The day ended with families attending the men’s rugby game or Blocktoberfest on Riverside Drive in Willimantic.

English Professor and Department Chair Stephen Ferruci attended the event with his family. “It’s nice to see the students I've had in class with their families and get a sense of their life outside of campus while also seeing them make new connections throughout the day,” he said.