Parents Weekend 2008

September 26-28

Register now!

*Parents Weekend Registration                                       
available until Sept. 5 at 3 p.m.                                        
 

TENTATIVE SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

updated 9-2-08

*Please note that events will be added until Parents Weekend, so check back periodically for schedule updates.  A final schedule of events will be given to all registered Parents Weekend participants during check-in.


FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26

7 a.m.-11 p.m.
Mapping the History of Cartography in Rare Books and Special Collections
Thomas Cooper Library, Mezzanine Gallery
Visit this exhibit to learn more about the Thomas Cooper Library’s tremendous resources in the history of cartography, especially relating to the exploration of the Americas, mapping the New American Republic and trans-Mississippi West, maps from wartime, maps documenting new advances in the sciences, schoolbooks, and tools for navigating the seas and the heavens.

7 a.m.-11 p.m.
Never Let Me Go: An Exhibition for the First-Year Reading Experience 2008
Thomas Cooper Library, West Gallery (Lobby)
Learn more about Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro, the First-Year Reading Experience selection for 2008, by visiting this exhibit.  Drawing on the resources of the Department of Rare Books and Special Collections in the Thomas Cooper Library, it was created with two goals in mind: to situate Ishiguro’s novel as a conscious exemplar of several established genres of British fiction and to explore other ideas found in the book through historical and contemporary source material.

8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

“Dear Mom and Dad: Carolina Students Write Home”

South Caroliniana Library, Horseshoe

Letters and images from the collections of the South Caroliniana Library and University Archives illustrate how some aspects of Carolina student life, such as clothing and extracurricular activities, have undergone tremendous changes over the centuries and how some things have remained the same.  This exhibit will run through December 20, 2008.

8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Carrying the State Exhibit
McKissick Museum, Horseshoe
Curated by students from the fall 2007 Museum Exhibitions Development class, this exhibit will explore the important role South Carolina has had in presidential elections, discuss the evolution and methods of the voting process and give visitors a chance to vote for their own candidate (with results posted on the museum Web site).

8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

This Far by Faith: African American Camp Meeting Traditions in the Carolinas Exhibit

McKissick Museum, Horseshoe
This exhibit tells the history and captures the spirit of camp meetings through photographs, video and artifacts.  Featuring photographs and oral histories by art professor Minuette Floyd, “This Far by Faith” uncovers the understanding and awareness of this rich, southern tradition and shows the importance camp meetings hold both within and outside of the communities where they take place.

9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Open House: University Technology Services and the i-CARE Center
University Technology Services, 1244 Blossom Street
Visit University Technology Services and the iCARE (Internet Computer and Resource Education) Center to see how student technology support works!  Tour the iCARE Center where you can interact with the technicians and see real support sessions taking place!  Plus, Internet kiosks will be available if you need a quick check of your e-mail or your latest online news update!

9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Art Exhibit
McMaster Art Gallery, 1615 Senate Street

10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Parents Weekend Check-In and Packet Pick-Up
Russell House Ballroom

10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Parent Resource Fair
Russell House Ballroom

10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Ring Week
Russell House Information Desk, first floor across from Zia Juice
The Carolina Alumni Association invites students to participate in one of Carolina's most prestigious traditions—The Official Ring. The Official Ring stands as a time-honored expression of Carolina pride and is recognized by Carolina alumni worldwide. Whether you're a Carolina alumnus or a student with over 60 credit hours you'll find this ring a precious keepsake representing your commitment to Carolina. Please stop by the information desk in the bottom floor of the Russell House to order your ring.

11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
McCutchen House Lunch Buffet
McCutchen House, Horseshoe
The McCutchen House is operated by the School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Management.  Under the close supervision of the director and professional chefs, HRTM students prepare and serve a gourmet lunch buffet.  The buffet is $10 per person.  Reservations are required, so please call 803-777-4450.

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management Parent Lunch at the McCutchen House
McCutchen House, Horseshoe
Parents of College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management students are invited to make reservations at the McCutchen House to have lunch in the Williams Room with HRSM faculty.  A gourmet buffet lunch is prepared and served by HRSM students under the close supervision of the director and professional chefs.  This event is free and limited to the first 30 HRSM parents who sign up.  Call 803-777-4450 to make your reservation and mention the College of HRSM Parents Weekend Lunch.

Noon-12:45 p.m.
Watch This!  Vote for Me!
Russell House
Obama or McCain.  White House, Congress or city hall.  Political advertising has become a billion-dollar business.  Remember the “daisy” ad?   The candidate in a tank?  College of Mass Communications and Information Studies Dean Charles Bierbauer, a former CNN political correspondent, examines the high profile and high stakes of political advertising.

1-1:45 p.m.
This Is Gamecock Football!
Russell House
Get excited about Gamecock football with this educational session!  Come find out what football in the south is all about!  We’ll fill you in on Carolina traditions like tailgating, what to wear to the football game, where to park, when to get to the stadium area and what to expect.  You won’t want to miss this session all about the Gamecock football experience!

1-2 p.m.
Historical Campus Tour
Visitor Center at McKissick Museum, Horseshoe
Take a step back through history on a special tour of the University’s campus -- walk where confederate and union soldiers marched, see where Pope John Paul II addressed the campus and take yourself back to the days of South Carolina College.  Meet on the steps of the Visitor Center at McKissick Museum.  Sign-up for the tour will be available at Parents Weekend check-in.  In order to keep tours small, space will be limited.

1-4 p.m.
Student Success Center Open House
Thomas Cooper Library, Mezzanine Level
The Student Success Center provides individual and small group tutoring; supplemental instruction; programs for out-of-state and transfer students and students of color; the First Year Call Center; and more.  Come by to learn more about services and resources available to students.

2-2:45 p.m.
Across State Lines: Southern Culture for Out-of-State Parents

Russell House
Transitioning to college is one challenge, but if you've come from out-of-state, adjusting to life in the South can be an even larger challenge!  Join the Out-of-State Mentors for an out-of-state parents workshop on southern culture, traditions and the Gamecocks Across America mentor program.  This workshop will also include a chance to sample some traditional southern foods and an opportunity to mingle with fellow out-of-state parents. 

2-2:45 p.m.
A Parents’ Guide to the Career Center
Russell House
Learn how the Career Center is helping students decide on career goals and how to search for a job in this highly competitive job market.  The director of the Career Center, Thomas Halasz, will lead the discussion of how Carolina students compete in the global job market and answer questions regarding Career Center programs and services.

2-4 p.m.
Beyond Academics: Student Health Services Drop-In
Thomson Student Health Center
Meet and greet the healthcare providers at Student Health Services and learn how your student can become an educated health consumer for life.

2-4 p.m.
Religious Studies Reception
Rutledge Chapel, Horseshoe
Discover the fascinating world of religion at a reception hosted by the Religious Studies Department.  Come meet faculty and students from the department, view their publications and visit Rutledge Chapel.

3-3:45 p.m.
My Student Is Greek…Now What?
Russell House
In this session, you will learn what to expect from your student’s Greek experience and will receive an overview of the services provided by the Office of Greek Life.  Facilitators will answer questions specific to Greek Life at the University of South Carolina.

3-4 p.m.
Study Abroad Preview for Parents (and their students!)
Legare College, Room 322, Horseshoe
This informal session will provide information about the range of study, intern, volunteer and research abroad opportunities available to your students as well as answer key questions about credit, financial aid, scholarships and safety abroad.

3-5 p.m.
Pre-Professional Advising Open House
Sumwalt 208
Parents are invited to come meet the advisors for the pre-law and pre-med students at the Pre-Professional Advising Open House.  Light refreshments will be provided.

3-5 p.m.
Greek Village Open House
Greek Village
Make sure to pick up a map at check-in to tour the Greek Village!  Families and students can take a self-guided tour of the Greek Village, located next to the Strom Thurmond Wellness and Fitness Center.  Stop in and visit the Delta Delta Delta sorority house (520 Gadsden Street) and the Kappa Sigma fraternity house (808 Mark Buyck Way). Parents will be able to view the lobby area of the houses.

3-5 p.m.

Presbyterian Student Association Open House

Presbyterian Student Center, 1702 Greene Street

Students and their parents are invited to an open house at the Presbyterian Student Center to meet the Presbyterian campus minister and Presbyterian Student Association (PSA).

3:30-5:30 p.m.
College of Mass Communications and Information Studies Drop-In
Carolina Coliseum, Blossom Street Lobby (lower level)
Parents of students in the College of Mass Communications and Information Studies are invited to meet the college’s faculty and staff.  Dessert, coffee and soft drinks will be provided.

4-4:45 p.m.
College Parents 101
Russell House
The college transition can be tough on everyone, including parents.  In this “Parents 101” class, Stuart Hunter, assistant vice provost for University 101 and the National Resource Center for the First-Year Experience and Students in Transition, will discuss survival skills for parents, as well as focus on techniques for surviving the college experience.  Take advantage of the opportunity to learn more about transitional issues facing your child.

4-4:45 p.m.
Thomas Cooper Library Rare Books and Special Collections: Rare Book and the Undergraduate Experience

Graniteville Room, Thomas Cooper Library
Learn about the rare and unique book and manuscript collections in Thomas Cooper Library in this informal presentation for parents. You will see examples of literary and historical works from the collection (including medieval manuscripts and works by Milton, Whitman, and Hemingway) and learn how they have been used in recent undergraduate classes and research projects.

4-5 p.m.
The Emotional Wellness Approach to Success at the University of South Carolina
Russell House
There’s no getting around it: college life is stressful. One thing we often forget is that the challenges of college are not just academic but also personal. Stress is an inevitable and a necessary part of life at any age, so maintaining wellness is far less a matter of avoiding stress than it is preventing stress from becoming overwhelming. Join Pete Liggett and Toby Lovell from the Counseling and Human Development Center as they discuss signs of student distress or over-stress, how parents can support their student/child through times of stress, and what resources are available for students experiencing emotional health issues.

4-5 p.m.
Moore School of Business Panel Discussion: The Current Financial Crisis
Moore School of Business, Room 855
Parents and their students are invited to discuss current credit conditions and the banking environment, including problems and opportunities with housing, the mortgage market and banks with a panel from the Moore School of Business.  Space is limited.

4-5 p.m.
Career Center Drop-in
Career Center, H. William Close Building, 6th Floor
Drop by the Career Center to meet with staff and tour the facility. Learn about the resources available to all University of South Carolina students and how parents can help their students succeed.

4-5:30 p.m.
College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management Open House
McCutchen House, Horseshoe
All College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management students and their parents are invited to a reception at the McCutchen House to meet the dean, administration and faculty from the college.

5-6:30 p.m.
President’s Welcome Reception
President’s House, Horseshoe
Join Carolina’s new “first family,” Dr. and Mrs. Harris Pastides, as they officially welcome you to Parents Weekend 2008.  Members of the faculty and staff will also be on hand to greet you.

6 p.m.
The Love Guru
Russell House Theater
Enjoy this free movie starring Mike Myers in the Russell House Theater, courtesy of Carolina Productions, the campus programming board. 

7 p.m.
Women’s Soccer Game
Stone Stadium
Watch the University of South Carolina women’s soccer team battle the University of Tennessee Volunteers.

8-11 p.m.
Carolina Beach Bash
Strom Thurmond Wellness and Fitness Center Pool Area
Here is your chance to enjoy some of South Carolina’s finest delicacies.  Be sure to bring your dancing shoes for one of South Carolina’s most enjoyable traditions – beach music.  This party will be a true sampling of everything that Carolina has to offer with great food and great music!  Enter the party at the STWFC pool house gate located on Park Street. 

8 p.m.
Department of Theatre and Dance presents: “The Violet Hour”
Drayton Hall Theatre, Sumter Street between College and Greene Streets
In this engaging story about the implications of asking “What if…,” a first time publisher struggles with a decision to release as his first book either the memoirs of his lover or his best friend’s tome of a novel, all under the influence of a mysterious printing machine that foretells the future results of his decision.  “The Violet Hour” premiered on Broadway in 2003.  Richard Greenberg, director, is the Tony-winning author of “Take Me Out.”  Tickets are $16 for the general public, $14 for faculty/staff and $10 for students with ID.  Discount vouchers for parents will be available at registration. 

8, 9, 10 p.m.
Ghost Tours of the University
Tours leave on the hour from the Visitor Center on the Horseshoe
Join the University Ambassadors for a tour of the University's haunted history!  These student tour guides have researched stories on the ghosts of the University for your enjoyment and education to be divulged via walking tours.  Come hear about the daughter of our first University president who still waits for her lover at midnight in the South Caroliniana Library and about the janitor who haunts the Visitor Center where you will meet.  Hot chocolate will be available at the Visitor Center before and after the tours.  Participants are encouraged to register in advance with the Visitor Center by September 24.

9 p.m.
The Happening
Russell House Theater
Enjoy this free movie from director M. Night Shyamalan in the Russell House Theater, courtesy of Carolina Productions, the campus programming board.

Classes open to parents:
9:05-9:55 a.m. McMaster 214- Psychology of Religion
9:05-9:55 a.m. Business Administration Building 008- Gender and Politics
10:10- 11 a.m. Business Administration Building 402- Religion and Culture
11:15-12:05 p.m. Currell 107- The Sociology of Crime: Social factors in the development, identification, and treatment of criminals.
11:15 a.m.-12:05 p.m. Wardlaw 122- Quest for the Historical Jesus
12:20-1:10 p.m. Currell 107- Criminal Courts: Structure, organization, and functions of the federal and state court systems and personnel.
1:25-2:15 p.m. Currell 107- Corrections: Current and historical perspectives on incarceration and its alternatives.


Saturday, SEPTEMBER 27

7 a.m.-11 p.m.
Mapping the History of Cartography in Rare Books and Special Collections
Thomas Cooper Library, Mezzanine Gallery
Visit this exhibit to learn more about the Thomas Cooper Library’s tremendous resources in the history of cartography, especially relating to the exploration of the Americas, mapping the New American Republic and trans-Mississippi West, maps from wartime, maps documenting new advances in the sciences, schoolbooks, and tools for navigating the seas and the heavens.

7 a.m.-11 p.m.
Never Let Me Go: An Exhibition for the First-Year Reading Experience 2008
Thomas Cooper Library, West Gallery (Lobby)
Learn more about Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro, the First-Year Reading Experience selection for 2008, by visiting this exhibit.  Drawing on the resources of the Department of Rare Books and Special Collections in the Thomas Cooper Library, it was created with two goals in mind: to situate Ishiguro’s novel as a conscious exemplar of several established genres of British fiction and to explore other ideas found in the book through historical and contemporary source material.

8 a.m. (rain or shine)
Parents Weekend 5K
Solomon Blatt PE Center, Wheat Street
Participants can race, run or walk the 5k course for fun! Pre-registration is required. Click here for more information and to pre-register. (Co-sponsored by Campus Recreation)

9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Low Country Chef d’jour Cooking Class

McCutchen House, Horseshoe

Your favorite Southern foods from Charleston and Savannah.  This Chef d’ Jour one-day class will delight you with the specialties that only the Low Country can provide from the cuisine of the Sea Islands to the haute cuisine of Charleston.  Learn and sample from the chef’s twist on Low Country cuisine. Participants will have a complete menu to produce and then sit and enjoy the fruits of their labor.  Cost is $50 per person and is limited to 15 people.  Visit https://webapps.csg.sc.edu/mccutchen/ParentsWeekend to register.

9 a.m.-1 p.m.

“Dear Mom and Dad: Carolina Students Write Home”

South Caroliniana Library, Horseshoe

Letters and images from the collections of the South Caroliniana Library and University Archives illustrate how some aspects of Carolina student life, such as clothing and extracurricular activities, have undergone tremendous changes over the centuries and how some things have remained the same.  This exhibit will run through December 20, 2008.

9:30-11 a.m.
Alumni Scholars Association Breakfast
Capstone Campus Room
Start your Saturday right with the Carolina Alumni Association as we honor our Alumni Scholars.  Hear remarks from the new University president while enjoying breakfast.  This event is by invitation only for Alumni Scholars and their parents. For more information, call 1-800-476-8752.

10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Parents Weekend Check In and Packet Pick-Up
Russell House Ballroom

10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Ring Week

Russell House Information Desk, first floor across from Zia Juice

The Carolina Alumni Association invites students to participate in one of Carolina's most prestigious traditions—The Official Ring. The Official Ring stands as a time-honored expression of Carolina pride and is recognized by Carolina alumni worldwide. Whether you're a Carolina alumnus or a student with over 60 credit hours you'll find this ring a precious keepsake representing your commitment to Carolina.  Please stop by the information desk in the bottom floor of the Russell House to order your ring.  

11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Carrying the State Exhibit
McKissick Museum, Horseshoe
Curated by students from the fall 2007 Museum Exhibitions Development class, this exhibit will explore the important role South Carolina has had in presidential elections, discuss the evolution and methods of the voting process and give visitors a chance to vote for their own candidate (with results posted on the museum Web site).

11 a.m.-3 p.m.

This Far by Faith: African American Camp Meeting Traditions in the Carolinas Exhibit
McKissick Museum, Horseshoe
This exhibit tells the history and captures the spirit of camp meetings through photographs, video and artifacts.  Featuring photographs and oral histories by art professor Minuette Floyd, “This Far by Faith” uncovers the understanding and awareness of this rich, southern tradition and shows the importance camp meetings hold both within and outside of the communities where they take place.

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Food for Thought
Bates House Cafeteria
Spend some quality time on campus with your student at one of the University’s on-campus dining facilities.  This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy some great food and catch up with all that has happened during the fall semester.  Students must have a current meal plan in order for their family to participate.  (Co-sponsored by Carolina Dining Services)

6 p.m.
The Love Guru
Russell House Theater
Enjoy this free movie starring Mike Myers in the Russell House Theater, courtesy of Carolina Productions, the campus programming board. 

TBD
Parents Weekend Tailgate Party
Practice Field, Bluff Road
Enjoy traditional, southern tailgate foods and beverages while you practice cheering the Gamecocks on to victory with Cocky, the Cheerleaders and the Carolina Band.  Music will be provided by the entertaining Hill City Band.  Parking will NOT be available at the Practice Field.  Please refer to the Football Fan Guide provided at check-in for parking information.

TBD
University of South Carolina vs. University of Alabama-Birmingham
Williams-Brice Stadium
A limited number of football tickets for parents and family members are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Carolina students are eligible for student football tickets through the online ticket distribution system. Your student should visit www.ticketreturn.com/sc for instructions on how to log into the system and request student football tickets. Information on the ticket distribution schedule, frequently asked questions and policy information is also available on the Web site. If you have questions, please send an e-mail to sastutix@mailbox.sc.edu.

7 p.m.

Men’s Soccer vs. Davidson

Stone Stadium

Watch the Gamecock soccer team battle against Davidson!

8 p.m.
Department of Theatre and Dance presents: “The Violet Hour”
Drayton Hall Theatre, Sumter Street between College and Greene Streets
In this engaging story about the implications of asking “What if…,” a first time publisher struggles with a decision to release as his first book either the memoirs of his lover or his best friend’s tome of a novel, all under the influence of a mysterious printing machine that foretells the future results of his decision.  “The Violet Hour” premiered on Broadway in 2003.  Richard Greenberg, director, is the Tony-winning author of “Take Me Out.”  Tickets are $16 for the general public, $14 for faculty/staff and $10 for students with ID.  Discount vouchers for parents will be available at registration. 

8, 9, 10 p.m.
Ghost Tours of the University
Tours leave on the hour from the Visitor Center on the Horseshoe
Join the University Ambassadors for a tour of the University's haunted history!  These student tour guides have researched stories on the ghosts of the University for your enjoyment and education to be divulged via walking tours.  Come hear about the daughter of our first University president who still waits for her lover at midnight in the South Caroliniana Library and about the janitor who haunts the Visitor Center where you will meet.  Hot chocolate will be available at the Visitor Center before and after the tours.  Participants are encouraged to register in advance with the Visitor Center by September 24.

9 p.m.
The Happening
Russell House Theater
Enjoy this free movie from director M. Night Shyamalan in the Russell House Theater, courtesy of Carolina Productions, the campus programming board.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28

Religious Services
A complete listing of times and locations will be included in your packet. If you need additional assistance, please let us know.

7 a.m.-11 p.m.
Mapping the History of Cartography in Rare Books and Special Collections
Thomas Cooper Library, Mezzanine Gallery
Visit this exhibit to learn more about the Thomas Cooper Library’s tremendous resources in the history of cartography, especially relating to the exploration of the Americas, mapping the New American Republic and trans-Mississippi West, maps from wartime, maps documenting new advances in the sciences, schoolbooks, and tools for navigating the seas and the heavens.

7 a.m.-11 p.m.
Never Let Me Go: An Exhibition for the First-Year Reading Experience 2008
Thomas Cooper Library, West Gallery (Lobby)
Learn more about Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro, the First-Year Reading Experience selection for 2008, by visiting this exhibit.  Drawing on the resources of the Department of Rare Books and Special Collections in the Thomas Cooper Library, it was created with two goals in mind: to situate Ishiguro’s novel as a conscious exemplar of several established genres of British fiction and to explore other ideas found in the book through historical and contemporary source material.

8:45 a.m. and 11 a.m.
Presbyterian Student Association College Student Sunday
Shandon Presbyterian Church, 607 Woodrow Street
Students and their parents are invited to a special Sunday worship service celebrating the gifts and talents of students.  Carolina students will be leading in music and worship.  Students and parents may meet at the Presbyterian Student Center (1702 Greene Street) at 10:30 a.m. for transportation to Shandon Presbyterian Church.

TBD
Brunch at the McCutchen House
McCutchen House, Horseshoe
More information will be available soon.

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Food for Thought
Bates House Cafeteria
Spend some quality time on campus with your student at one of the University’s on-campus dining facilities.  This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy some great food and catch up with all that has happened during the fall semester.  Students must have a current meal plan in order for their family to participate.  (Co-sponsored by Carolina Dining Services)

Noon-2 p.m.
Capstone Scholars Reception
Capstone, Campus Room
Join the Capstone Scholars faculty and staff members for a drop-in reception.  This event is for Capstone Scholars and their parents.

Noon-2 p.m.
Gamecock Guarantee and Opportunity Scholars Reception
Booker T. Washington Building, Room 200
The TRIO Programs office will host a drop-in for Gamecock Guarantee recipients, Opportunity Scholars and their parents.  This event is by invitation only.  Please call 803-777-5125 for more information.

12:30-2 p.m.
Honors College Picnic
Horseshoe (rain location, Russell House Ballroom)
Wrap up your weekend with a beautiful picnic lunch hosted by the South Carolina Honors College.  This event is by invitation only for the Honors College students and their parents.  For more information, call 803-777-0610.  

1-3 p.m.
Office of Multicultural Student Affairs Brunch
Russell House Ballroom
The Office of Multicultural Student Affairs and the Office of Parents Programs invite parents and students to a brunch.  A motivational speaker will briefly address the audience.  This event is by invitation only.

1-4 p.m.
Art Exhibit
McMaster Art Gallery, 1615 Senate Street

2 p.m.
Women’s Soccer Game
Stone Stadium
Watch the University of South Carolina women’s soccer team battle the University of Georgia Bulldogs.

3 p.m.
Department of Theatre and Dance presents: “The Violet Hour”
Drayton Hall Theatre, Sumter Street between College and Greene Streets
In this engaging story about the implications of asking “What if…,” a first time publisher struggles with a decision to release as his first book either the memoirs of his lover or his best friend’s tome of a novel, all under the influence of a mysterious printing machine that foretells the future results of his decision.  “The Violet Hour” premiered on Broadway in 2003.  Richard Greenberg, director, is the Tony-winning author of “Take Me Out.”  Tickets are $16 for the general public, $14 for faculty/staff and $10 for students with ID.  Discount vouchers for parents will be available at registration. 

6 p.m.
The Love Guru
Russell House Theater
Enjoy this free movie starring Mike Myers in the Russell House Theater, courtesy of Carolina Productions, the campus programming board. 

9 p.m.
The Happening
Russell House Theater
Enjoy this free movie from director M. Night Shyamalan in the Russell House Theater, courtesy of Carolina Productions, the campus programming board.

City of Columbia Activities

Columbia Museum of Art
Corner of Main and Hampton Streets, downtown Columbia
The Columbia Museum of Art is South Carolina’s premier international art museum and houses an extraordinary collection of European and American art.  The museum brings the exhibition Dale Chihuly: Seaforms to South Carolina this fall.  The exhibit includes approximately 35 glassworks and preliminary sketches from Chihuly’s Seaform series – colorful, undulating shell-like forms within forms, inspired by the artist’s love of the sea.  Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for students, $4 for members of the military and senior citizens age 60 and over and free for children under age six.  Admission is free on Saturday.  For more information, call 803.799.2810 or visit www.columbiamuseum.org.  Hours: Friday 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m.

Congaree National Park
100 National Park Road, Hopkins
A great option for outdoor lovers and nature enthusiasts!  During Parents Weekend, the park is offering a variety of outdoor activities, including Tree Trek, Weston Lake Wilderness Hike, Canoeing Congaree, Owl Prowl and Who Came Before?. Admission and all park activities are free.  Reservations are required for some activities.  For more information, call 803.776.4396 or visit www.nps.gov/cong.  Hours: Friday and Saturday 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Sunday 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

Congaree River Canoe and Kayak Trip
Adventure Carolina, 1107 State Street, Cayce
Calling all adventurers for this three-mile canoe and kayak trip down the Congaree River!  The trip is set for Saturday at 2 p.m.  For more information and prices, call Adventure Carolina at 803.796.4505 or visit www.adventurecarolina.com.

EdVenture Children’s Museum
211 Gervais Street
Experience the joy of learning and discovery at EdVenture Children’s Museum!  A hands-on experience, EdVenture provides children and families with the opportunity to immerse themselves in dynamic, diverse exhibits programs, events, and more.  This weekend, EdVenture features From Here to Timbuktu,  Bubbleloosa and Eat Smart, Move More. Admission is $8.95 for adults, $6.95 for children age 12 and under and free for children under age one.  For more information, call 803.779.3100 or visit www.edventure.org.  Hours: Friday and Saturday 9 a.m.- 5 p.m., Sunday noon-5 p.m.

Finlay Park
930 Laurel Street
Finlay Park, named after a former mayor of Columbia, is one of the city’s most visited parks.  The 14-acre park features a scenic waterfall and cascading stream falling to the park lake.  Enjoy an afternoon picnic, a game of frisbee or play on the two playground areas.

Ghosts and Legends of Carolina Walking Tour
Take a 90-minute one-mile walking tour of Columbia for an intriguing, sometimes chilling, encounter with the region’s restless spirit world.  Availability is limited and reservations are required.  Admission is $18 for adults, $10 for children ages 8-14 and free for children under age eight.  For more information, call 803.765.1837 or visit www.theghostsofcarolina.com.  Hours: Friday and Saturday 8 p.m.

Historic Columbia Foundation Tours
Take a step back in Columbia’s history by visiting the Hampton-Preston Mansion, Mann-Simons Cottage and Robert Mills House and Gardens.  Various single and combination tours are available, as well as walking and trolley tour options.  For more information, call 803.252.7742 or visit www.historiccolumbia.org.

Main Street Marketplace
Boyd Plaza, Main Street (beside the Columbia Museum of Art)
Join City Center Partnership downtown to welcome and enjoy Main Street Marketplace.  Enjoy lunch from a variety of food vendors or dine at one of the many fine downtown restaurants.  Browse through the mix of handmade and unique arts, crafts, jewelry, candles, soaps, and specialty gifts.  Admission is free.  Hours: Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden
500 Wildlife Parkway (Greystone Blvd. exit from Interstate 126)
The Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is one of Columbia’s most popular visitor destinations.  From elephants and koalas to penguins and sharks, formal gardens to natural woodlands, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden promises new discoveries around every corner!  Admission is $9.75 for adults, $8.50 for members of the military, $8.25 for senior citizens age 62 and older, $7.25 for children ages 3-12 and free for children under age three.  For more information, call 803.779.8717 or visit www.riverbanks.org.  Hours: Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

S.C. Confederate Relic Room & Military Museum
301 Gervais Street (inside the South Carolina State Museum)
Visit the exhibit Forgotten Stories: South Carolina in the Great War, which focuses on the often overlooked aspects of South Carolinians in WWI, including involvement of African-Americans and women.  Learn about warfare technology, aviation and artillery.  Explore a simulated trench and interactive kiosks.  For more information, call 803.737.8095 or visit www.crr.sc.gov. Hours: Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

South Carolina Statehouse Tours
Main and Gervais Streets
Take a tour of the South Carolina capitol.  Enter at the guest entrance (looking at the Statehouse, to the left of the steps).  For more information and to schedule your tour, call 803.734.2430.   Tour times: Friday 9:30 a.m, 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m., Saturday 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

South Carolina State Museum
301 Gervais Street
Housed in the historic 1893 Columbia Mill textile building, the South Carolina State Museum tells the story of South Carolina through their many exhibits and programs.  Enjoy art, cultural history, natural history, science and technology.  Current exhibits include Hollywood Comes to South Carolina: A Century of Film making in the Palmetto State.  Receive the Parents Weekend discounted rate of $4 for adults 13-61 by showing your Parents Weekend nametag when you enter.  For more information, call 803.898.4921 or visit www.museum.state.sc.us.  Hours: Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m.

Three Rivers Greenway
Take a walk or go for a run along the peaceful riverside setting of the Three Rivers Greenway.  For more information and maps, visit www.riveralliance.org.

West Side Story at Town Theatre
1012 Sumter Street
Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is transported to modern day New York City, as two young lovers try to survive in a world of violence and prejudice.  West Side Story is one of the most heart-wrenching and relevant musical dramas of our time.  The exciting, sophisticated score with songs like Maria and Tonight are considered part of our nation’s musical heritage. For more information, call 803.799.2510 or visit www.towntheatre.com. Show times: Friday and Saturday 8 p.m.

Parents Weekend Golf Options