Classes are back in session, and the best way to get back into the campus mindset is with Weeks of Welcome (WOW). This multi-day celebration of all things University of Utah merges academic pursuits and career planning with cultural events, recreation, and social networking. There is literally something for everyone.
Academic & career activities
A large part of WOW is dedicated to integrating students into the campus community and professional landscape. Key events include:
- Welcome Week Tabling Fair (Aug 24): Held at the Union Plaza, this central hub is the best place to learn about campus resources and student organizations.
- Campus Store Events (Aug 24–28): Daily activities at the campus store feature product presentations, free samples, and stress-relief giveaways.
- Part-time & on-Campus job Fair (Aug 26): Students looking for employment can meet with departments across the university in the Union Ballroom to discuss open roles and internships.
- College-Specific Socials (Aug 25–27): Various departments will be holding events like Hungry for Humanities? (free pizza in the LNCO lobby) and Donuts with the Dean (CSBS), where students can connect with faculty and peer mentors.
Community & club opportunities
Building a social network is a primary focus of the mid-week schedule. Students can explore hundreds of interests through:
- Officer’s Circle LLC Social (Aug 25): An afternoon of music and refreshments designed for those living in the Officer’s Circle community.
- Get Involved Fair (Aug 27): The signature event for club recruitment, where students can play games, win prizes, and sign up for organizations that align with their personal and professional passions.
Culture, arts, and campus traditions
As summer winds down and September begins, WOW’s focus shifts toward university traditions and creative expression:
- Block U photo (Aug 28): One of the U’s most beloved traditions. All first-year, transfer, and international students are invited to come to Rice-Eccles stadium and take part in this massive photoshoot. Register here.
- Crimson Nights (Aug 28): The biggest party on campus! Music, food, dancing and even a mechanical bull! You do not want to miss it.
- Hike the U (Sep 1): A classic Utah tradition; students meet at the Alumni House at 5:30 PM to trek to the iconic “U” on the mountain.
- PlazaPalooza (Sep 1): A massive celebration on the Marriott Library Plaza featuring live music, food, and student activities.
- Arts Bash (Sep 2): A showcase of campus creativity with live performances and art displays, followed later that evening by Sunset Cinema at Red Butte Garden and SB Dance’s Curbside Theater on the Legacy Bridge lawn.
- Wellness & Inclusion (Sep 2–3): Students can recharge with Yoga at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts or attend the Native Excellence ribbon cutting for the Native Ascent Living Learning Community.
- Fall Fest (Sep 3): Learn more about the Marriott Library, grab a bagel, and get the opportunity to win a new Nintendo Switch 2!
Where to find the action
Full event details, times, and RSVP links are available directly on the official University of Utah Student Experience portal.