Campus Events

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Last Updated: Mar 17, 2025, 11:45 AM

Discover the dynamic campus life at Southern Illinois University. Here, you'll find descriptions of some of the many exciting events that enrich our campus community each year. From academic competitions and cultural festivals to community service initiatives and recreational activities, SIU offers a wealth of opportunities for engagement and connection. These highlighted events represent just a sample of the numerous activities designed to enhance your university experience, foster new friendships, and create lasting memories. Explore the events below to see how you can get involved and make the most of your time at SIU.

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Fall Semester

  • Move-In

    girl carrying boxes during student move-in

    Move-in unites faculty, staff, student organizations, and the local community to create a seamless and welcomimg experience for all students and thier families.

  • Saluki Startup & Weeks of Welcome

    student on steps of banterra center during saluki startup
    Saluki Startup and Weeks of Welcome (WOW) provide new and returning students with opportunities to engage in campus activities, connect with peers, faculty, staff, campus departments, and community organizations, and enhance their academic, social, and cultural experiences with events updated throughout the summer.

  • Family Weekend

    group of people during family weekend
    SIU Family Weekend offers fun events and activities for students and their families to enjoy together.

  • Homecoming

    siu football player running with flag
    Homecoming features a lively mix of events and activities, including parades, games, and reunions, celebrating Saluki spirit and tradition.

  • Carbondale Halloween

    carbondale halloween logo
    Halloween returns to Carbondale for weeks of family-friendly, spine-tingling fun and thrilling events!

  • Fall Commencement

    student at fall commencement
    Celebrate with us at Fall Commencement, where we honor the achievements of our graduates with a memorable ceremony recognizing their hard work and dedication.

Spring Semester

  • Saluki Con

    Group of 4 men dressed up as the ghost busters at the SIU Saluki Con
    An annual event celebrating science, technology, arts, humanities, and comics, featuring guest panels, workshops, gaming events, cosplay contests, and exhibitions, designed for all ages and interests to engage with industry professionals and enjoy diverse entertainment.

  • Job and Internship Fair

    student speaking with possible employer during a job fair
    Join us for the Job and Internship Fairs to connect with potential employers and explore exciting career opportunities.

  • Maple Syrup Festival

    people attending the maple syrup festival
    Enjoy two full days of family fun including maple syrup demonstrations, pancake breakfast, nature hikes, lumberjack demonstrations, children's activities, vendors and artisans, and much more.

  • The Big Event

    students working during the big event
    When Salukis unite for a cause, significant impacts are made, The Big Event: A Saluki Day of Service, the largest student-run service project in SIU Carbondale's history, demonstrating our appreciation for community support.

  • The Great Cardboard Boat Regatta

    two people paddling their cardboard boat
    Originating at Southern Illinois University Carbondale in 1974, the Great Cardboard Boat Regatta is a fun, family-friendly event that continues to attract aspiring boat builders and spectators each spring to race (and sink) their cardboard creations.

  • Spring Commencement

    students attending spring commencement
    Join us for Spring Commencement to celebrate our graduates' accomplishments with a ceremony that honors their dedication and hard work.

Summer Semester

  • Saluki Summer Bridge

    Group of students taking part in the Saluki Summer Bridge Program
    Aimed at helping first-year students adjust to college life and prepare for their first semester, this two-week program includes enrichment courses, leadership activities, and an introduction to SIU's learning platforms, while also providing opportunities to meet faculty, staff, and administrators.

  • Sunset Concerts

    Band Playing at SIU Sunset Concert on the steps of Shryock Auditorium

    A long-standing summer tradition in Carbondale, featuring free concerts every Thursday evening throughout the summer. The concerts alternate between the steps of Shryock Auditorium on the SIU campus and two other locations in Carbondale: Turley Park and the corner of Washington Street and Illinois 13​.

  • Bryson Future Scholars

    SIU Students Moving into campus housing.
    The Dr. Seymour Bryson Future Scholars program supports newly admitted students in the Exploratory Student Advisement program, offering classes during the last four weeks of the summer semester in July.