Stonehill College Welcome Families on Family Weekend

By Christina Czechel

This year's Family Weekend at Stonehill College will take place Friday, Oct. 16 through Sunday, October 18, giving students and their families a chance to experience campus life together. This year’s expanded schedule includes academic programs, athletics, entertainment, community service, and new activities that highlight Stonehill’s connection to the greater Easton community. 

Friday begins with several opportunities for families to explore the area and campus. Families can enjoy a round of golf at Easton Country Club (be sure to register ahead), visit the Father Peyton Center, or participate in Stonehill Farm’s volunteer hours. 

Another highlight is “Real Estate Finance in Action,” a student poster showcase demonstrating how Stonehill students apply financial concepts to real-world development projects in local communities. The day also features the Communities of Stonehill Social, allowing families to connect with members of different campus communities. 

Friday evening shifts toward entertainment, including the Derek Hughes Comedy Magic Show in McCarthy Auditorium. Hughes combines comedy and magic in a performance designed for audiences of all ages. 

Families and students can hit the stands Friday night as women’s ice hockey and volleyball are scheduled to compete. Puck drop will be at 5 p.m. at Bridgewater Ice Arena, while the volleyball team will take to the Merkert court at 6 p.m. 

The night concludes with Karaoke Night at Brother Mike’s, giving students and families a chance to socialize and sing together. 

Saturday features some of the weekend’s most unique events. 

Families can attend the “Yankees Suck! Understanding Sport Fans” Mock Class from Sport Management Associate Professor and Chair Dr. Annemarie Farrell. The talk will explore the psychology and business behind sports fandom. 

Another major addition is the Shovel Town Brewery on campus, celebrating Stonehill’s connection to Easton and the history of the Ames Shovel Company. Shovel Town created the Built to Rise beer collection in partnership with Stonehill, with beers named after athletic themes, including Buzzer Beater IPA, Grand Slam Pumpkin Ale, Hat Trick Stout, and Hall of Fame Lager. 

The connection to Stonehill’s history continues with the Shovel Collection Open House, where families can learn about the College’s collection of more than 900 shovels and the history of the Ames family and shovel company. Other Saturday activities include a Psychology Experiment with Assistant Professor of Psychology Jennifer Cooper, the Jostens School Ring Sale and the “You Ask, We Answer” Family Leader Panel. 

Families can also enjoy the campus-wide tailgate and several athletic events throughout the day.

Saturday night offers several activities perfect for the fall season. Haunting at the Hill shares stories and legends connected to Stonehill’s history, while Stargazing with Physics & Astronomy Associate Professor and Department Chair, Francesca Fornasini allows families to view the night sky through telescopes. That will be at the Market-Tracy Observatory at 7 p.m. 

The evening finishes with Family Weekend BINGO at Brother Mike’s at 8 p.m.

Sunday provides a relaxed conclusion to the weekend. “Your Network Starts Here,” from Marketing Professor Kristin McGuillicuddy teaches students and families about LinkedIn, networking, and building professional connections. 

Fall Fest on the Quad includes lawn games, crafts, pumpkin painting, photo opportunities, and food trucks. Families can also watch performances by Girls From the Hill and Surround Sound, participate in Sumi Marbling, attend the Patriots vs. Jets Watch Party, and support Habitat for Humanity during the Car Smash fundraiser. 

Throughout the weekend, families can also attend Stonehill athletic events, including women’s hockey, volleyball, women’s soccer, and football. With academics, athletics, entertainment, community service, and school traditions all included, Family Weekend 2026 gives families a chance to experience the many sides of life at Stonehill. 

More than just a series of events, the weekend celebrates the connections between students, families, alumni, faculty, and the surrounding Easton community. Enjoy the weekend!