Bulldog Welcome Week 2026!
by
Wed, Aug 26, 2026 8:00 AM –
Sun, Aug 30, 2026 9:00 PM CDT (GMT-5)
University of Minnesota Duluth
1120 Kirby Dr., Duluth, MN 55812, United States
Details
Agenda
Upcoming Events
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Are you all moved in and ready to meet some new friends? Come to Ordean Court to participate some lawn games
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Veteran Services meet and greet. VA Education Benefits Q&A
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Welcome to UMD! Come learn how to get yourself registered to vote at your new home.
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Bring your own hobby or borrow one from us! Join Disability Resources for a low pressure, neurodivergent-friendly gathering for anyone looking to step out of the fast-paced and super social events of the week. Come as you are and engage as much or little as you please! Bring a craft, book, game, or just yourself. We will bring puzzles, coloring, air clay, and the snacks!
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Information session on pre-health pathways
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Learn jujutsu with the instructor for Self Defense and advisor for the Jujutsu Club at UMD
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Come to this session to learn the language of the University and get tips for navigating University processes. Sample topics include syllabi, office hours, getting to know your faculty, transfer credits, and petitions.
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
An open house session to answer any and all questions about getting your textbooks and other required course materials.
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Come join your fellow bulldogs in a game of volleyball on the terrace
3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
COME to the AILRC 315 KIRBY PLAZA and meet the staff from American Indian Learning Resource Center and play BINGO to win small prizes --you may need when you move into the dorms.. COME FOR SOME FUN & snacks. Also with a little Indigenous Trivia included
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
60 minute Yoga Class for all levels
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Our friends at Glensheen Mansion put on a Concert on the Pier that they are inviting all students to attend. Hang out and meet some new friends while listening to music by the water
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Do you have a green thumb? Need more life in your dorm room? Or just want to take home a plant? Join Kirby Program Board in DIY Terrariums, where you can build your own plant friend while making new friends!
8:00 PM – 8:30 PM
After the sun sets, the universe is ours to behold! But in the planetarium, the sun can set whenever we want. Explore the wonders of tonight's sky and learn about the stars, constellations, planets, and other objects we can see.
8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Come to Kirby Ballroom to play Mario Kart and other games, but watch out for blue shells!
9:00 PM – 9:30 PM
After the sun sets, the universe is ours to behold! But in the planetarium, the sun can set whenever we want. Explore the wonders of tonight's sky and learn about the stars, constellations, planets, and other objects we can see.
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Your U-Card already gives you access to unlimited bus rides. Come learn how to use it! Join fellow students as we demystify the bus pass, answer questions, and build confidence riding public transit. With rising gas prices and parking costs, it's a great way to save money and get around.
10:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Get tips and tricks for navigating Superior Dining with allergies, dietary needs, or picky eating habits.
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
FOOD TRUCKS! Dunk Tank! Games! Oh my! At Bulldog Bash, enjoy carnival games hosted by different departments on campus. Race your new roommate or new friends in the inflatable obstacle course. Enjoy free popcorn!
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Want to make sure that you’re ready for college-level writing? The Writing Center will be sharing the tips, tools, and resources that every college student needs to know to tackle those big class papers.
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Join Veronica and Lea, two mental health therapists on campus, for EMBROIDERY! Whether you would like to learn to embroider or are a seasoned stitcher, come join us! We'll provide materials and instruction, so just bring yourself! You'll leave with the starts of an embroidered saying and the steps needed to complete it. We'll connect, craft, chat about transitioning to college and discuss ways to care for yourself this year!
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
A workshop to introduce students to stress release activities and stress management techniques.
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Let's Grow & Build Together! This session will highlight events and opportunties for LGBTQ+ individuals and aspiring allies while bringing folks together to make new connections!
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Come to this session to learn the language of the University and get tips for navigating University processes. Sample topics include syllabi, office hours, getting to know your faculty, transfer credits, and petitions.
11:45 AM – 12:45 PM
Living off campus your first year? This event is for you! Meet other new commuter students, learn how to make the most of your time on campus, and get the lowdown on hangout and study spots that will make UMD feel like your (second) home.
11:45 AM – 12:45 PM
Transfer students, you know how this “college” thing works -- but do you know how it works at UMD? Join us at this event to meet other new transfer students, hear about transfer-specific resources, and learn how to make the most of your time on campus. All new transfer students are strongly encouraged to attend. We can’t wait to see you there!
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Let's Kickoff your Welcome Week Right! Get ready to learn some cheers, meet champ, and hear from the Chancellor and President of UMD’s Student Government Association!
Low Sensory options are available, but limited to those in need.
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
After all that sitting and cheering at the Kickoff, I bet you’re hungry! Come back to Ordean Court for more FREE food, lawn games, and mingling with other students. We’ll have carnival snacks and hot dogs for you and your new friends to enjoy all while UMD’s very own [Bryan Martinez] an exciting 2 hour set! Vegan and vegetarian options are included, so all are welcome!
4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
These packs are led by an upper-class student who will help you during Welcome Week and the next few months! This is an essential event during the week, so make sure you don't miss it!
7:00 PM – 7:30 PM
The night sky, both beautiful and mysterious, has been the subject of campfire stories, ancient myths and awe for as long as there have been people. A desire to comprehend the Universe may well be humanity's oldest shared intellectual experience. Yet only recently have we truly begun to grasp our place in the vast cosmos. To learn about this journey of celestial discovery, from the theories of the ancient Greek astronomers to today's grandest telescopes, we invite you to experience From Earth to the Universe.
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Come create your own cuddly friend to join you on all your adventures!
7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Looking for a fun event to take your bulldog to? Come sing your favorite songs with other new students! Drinks and snacks will be provided, so all you need to do is bring a good attitude and have fun!
8:00 PM – 8:30 PM
The night sky, both beautiful and mysterious, has been the subject of campfire stories, ancient myths and awe for as long as there have been people. A desire to comprehend the Universe may well be humanity's oldest shared intellectual experience. Yet only recently have we truly begun to grasp our place in the vast cosmos. To learn about this journey of celestial discovery, from the theories of the ancient Greek astronomers to today's grandest telescopes, we invite you to experience From Earth to the Universe.
9:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Catch the Renegade Improv group in the Kirby Ballroom at 9pm!
9:30 PM – 11:30 PM
Are you a board game fan and want to flex your board game know-how? Do you like meeting new people? Do you just want to snack on a brownie and learn a new game or two? Well then, come to Board Games and Brownies! It will be a low key way to meet some new people, play some board games (provided by UMD Housing) and snack on some delicious brownies (provided by UMD Dining). No previous experience needed, and if you own a favorite board game that you want to share with others - feel free to bring it!
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Make the most of your time in Duluth by volunteering in the community! Learn about how you can get involved with various local non-profits to make a difference. We'll share information about student organizations, campus programs and other community resources that can help you get involved.
9:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Get tips and tricks for navigating Superior Dining with allergies, dietary needs, or picky eating habits.
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
College life comes with a lot of firsts...like doing your own laundry!
Whether you’ve never touched a washing machine or just want to avoid shrinking your favorite hoodie, this event is for you. Join us for a fun, discussion based session where you’ll learn all the laundry basics: how to separate your clothes, choose the right settings, and avoid common mistakes.
What to Expect:
✔ Step-by-step laundry tutorials
✔ Tips for using campus/housing machines & laundry app.
✔ Free laundry supplies (detergent, dryer balls & more!)
✔ Morning snacks provided
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Learn about study abroad from UMD students who studied abroad themselves in countries like Peru, Ireland, Spain, Italy, and Costa Rica.
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Women’s sports are finally getting the attention they deserve, and it’s time to see how much you really know! Grab your friends and join us for a trivia night celebrating iconic athletes, legendary moments, and the rise of women’s sports around the world!
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Join Housing & Residence Life to dress up your dorm with felt pennants and banners! All supplies are included- just bring your creativity and Pinterest board inspiration!
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Are you ready for your college-level courses? Take 30 minutes to level up your high school skills to meet the new challenges of college. In this session, you will add to your inventory of active learning strategies and learn how to get through all that reading. Plus you'll hear about UMD’s three best resources to hack your learning!
Presented by faculty from the Academic Success Center.
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
So, you got a work study award! What does that mean? How can you use it? Where do you find a work study job? Come to this interactive session to get all your work study questions answered!
10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Join the College of Education and Human Service Professions (CEHSP) for a warm and energetic college welcome designed just for you! This is your chance to meet the people who will support and guide you throughout your academic journey at UMD. Whether you're majoring in education, psychology, social work, exercise science, or any of our other programs, this event will help you feel at home and connected right from the start.
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Get ready to launch your college journey with the Swenson College of Science and Engineering (SCSE)! 🚀 Whether you're studying biology, chemistry, engineering, computer science, mathematics, or physics, this welcome event is your first opportunity to meet the people and resources that will shape your SCSE experience at UMD.
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Join the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences (CAHSS) for a warm and energetic college welcome designed just for you! This is your chance to meet the people who will support and guide you throughout your academic journey at UMD. This event will help you feel at home and connected right from the start.
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Join the Labovitz School of Business and Economics (LSBE) for a warm and energetic college welcome designed just for you! This is your chance to meet the people who will support and guide you throughout your academic journey at UMD. This event will help you feel at home and connected right from the start.
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Whether you participated in theatre at your high school or are thinking of checking it out for the first time, join current faculty and students from UMD Theatre and learn about how you can get involved, behind the scenes or onstage. We'll take a tour of the Marshall Performing Arts Center and talk about the ins and outs of auditioning, work study opportunities and more.
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
IPS & Alworth Global Trivia! We will play a trivia game focused on international topics and introduce students to international focused programs at UMD.
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Are you ready for your college-level courses? Take 30 minutes to level up your high school skills to meet the new challenges of college. In this session, you will add to your inventory of active learning strategies and learn how to get through all that reading. Plus you'll hear about UMD’s three best resources to hack your learning!
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Curious about Group Fitness at RSOP but not sure where to start? Join us for a Group Fitness Informational Session where we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to feel confident stepping into your first class. Learn about the different class formats, what to expect, and how often you should attend to meet your goals. We’ll also highlight the inclusive, welcoming environment that makes RSOP Group Fitness a supportive space for all experience levels. Come ask questions, meet the community, and discover your fit! This isn't a fitness class, it's just a discussion!
12:15 PM – 2:15 PM
These packs are led by an upper-class student who will help you during Welcome Week and the next few months! This is an essential event during the week, so make sure you don't miss it!
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Get ready to party with ODI, the Office of Diversity & Inclusion, which is committed to bring inclusivity, equity and social justice to students. Come out and make lifelong friends.
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Come and show off your skills with Poker!
8:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Kidnapping! Murder! Sex! Find out what Zeus and the other Greek gods were really up to in these R-rated stories you were never told in school.
8:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Come watch the Mentalist perform magic tricks, tell jokes, and maybe even read your mind!
9:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Join RSOP to learn about everything they have to offer for you the next few years along with playing fun night games with incoming students. Open to everyone!!
9:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Kidnapping! Murder! Sex! Find out what Zeus and the other Greek gods were really up to in these R-rated stories you were never told in school.
10:00 AM – 11:15 AM
REQUIRED FOR ALL STUDENTS:
Sex Rules is an interactive, multimedia lecture that discusses sexual assault awareness and prevention. The program educates and empowers students to understand safe sex practices, interactions, and exploration. This program also gives students the tools to understand and recognize all forms of sexual violence, along with proper methods for healing or helping survivors.
Link to learn more: https://sexrulesshow.com/home/
Content Warning: We are aware that topics of sexual assault can be difficult to discuss. Alternative programming is available in Kirby Student Center Lakeview Room(KSC 268). 24-hour Online Confidential Advocacy available through the PAVSA 24-hours crisis line by calling 218-726-1931
For questions or concerns, contact Student Conduct at (218)726-8969 or conduct@d.umn.edu.
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
These packs are led by an upper-class student who will help you during Welcome Week and the next few months! This is an essential event during the week, so make sure you don't miss it!
1:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Your chance to make a difference from day one! Learn more about Duluth and help out at our Welcome Week Service/Experiences. Not only will you support a great local organization, you get treated to a fun Duluth experience. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity!
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Come join your fellow bulldogs in a game of kickball
3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Spend some time in nature with a gentle guided hike in the Bagley Nature Area. Bring a water bottle and meet outside the Library Entrance.
8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Come to Malosky Stadium for the Biggest event of the week!
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
RSOP is hosting a yoga class, all you need to bring is yourself and a water bottle! Enjoy this stress-free class and use these techniques throughout the semester!
Bring your own mat if you have one. We have a limited supply available
2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Join us in the library for some crafty fun and unleash your creativity! Paper crafts, bracelets, and more are available.
6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Spend some time in nature with a gentle guided hike in Chester Bowl, the closest city park to UMD. Bring a water bottle and meet outside the Library Entrance.
7:00 PM – 7:30 PM
No longer the stuff of science fiction, the discovery of the black hole is a triumph of modern science. Explore the fascinating world of black holes in this program narrated by Academy Award nominated actor Liam Neeson.
8:00 PM – 8:30 PM
No longer the stuff of science fiction, the discovery of the black hole is a triumph of modern science. Explore the fascinating world of black holes in this program narrated by Academy Award nominated actor Liam Neeson.
Where
University of Minnesota Duluth
1120 Kirby Dr., Duluth, MN 55812, United States