Join us for Fam Fest, our first annual Spring semester Family Weekend, filled with fun, connection, and GW spirit! Spend time with your student, explore both GW and the vibrant city of DC, and enjoy a range of exciting events. It’s a weekend designed to create lasting memories and celebrate the GW community.
Registration is required for all events and helps us ensure you have the best experience possible. Families and students can sign up through our registration portal, where you'll be able to select activities and events of interest. To register, you’ll be prompted to create an account through GW Family Connections. Once registered, a confirmation will be sent to your email and if you need to make any edits you can easily update your registration through your account.
Your registration includes access to the Silent Disco Welcome Party, GW Women's Basketball Game, and the Best of GW experiences, and discounted rates for special events throughout the weekend. While registering, you’ll also have the option to add special event upgrades to your cart.
Your Fam Fest registration grants access to an exciting weekend, including the Family Game Night, Best of GW events, and the chance to cheer on our Women’s Basketball team while enjoying vibrant campus life.
Every Fam Fest registration comes with a commemorative T-shirt, designed to celebrate the spirit of the weekend. This exclusive shirt is a must-have keepsake for attendees, symbolizing the fun and memories made this weekend!
Our students immerse themselves in the District’s vibrant culture—now it’s your turn! With specially curated excursions around the city, you'll discover everything from iconic historical landmarks to world-class museums and hidden gems!
We have an incredible schedule of exciting events and activities for you and your guests to choose from. To make your registration process much smoother, we strongly suggest you review the schedule below so that you have a good idea of which events you wish to attend.
Kick off your Fam Fest weekend at our convenient check-in! Pick up your welcome materials, get the event schedule, and grab some exclusive GW swag. Our friendly staff will be ready to greet you and ensure you have everything you need for a memorable weekend.
Arriving later to Fam Fest? No worries! Our Late Family Check-In station will be open to make sure you get your welcome materials, event schedule, and GW swag. Stop by, and we’ll help you get settled so you can jump right into the weekend’s activities!
Start your Saturday on a high note with Buff and Blues Jazz Brunch! Enjoy a delicious brunch while relaxing to live blues music. It’s the perfect way to start your morning with your family -- enjoying great food, smooth tunes, and wonderful company.
Cheer on the GW Women’s Basketball team as they take on their rivals in an exciting match! Show your Revolutionary spirit and join other families and students in supporting our talented athletes. It’s a game you won’t want to miss!
Bring out your competitive side at Family Game Night! Whether you’re into board games, trivia, or classic favorites, there’s something for everyone. Gather your family and friends for a fun-filled evening of laughter, challenges, and friendly competition.
Make advantage of these exciting opportunities to connect with Washington, D.C. Each option offers a unique experience, allowing you to explore the culture, history, and attractions of our vibrant city. Please remember that each District Connections trip required pre-registration.
11 AM Trips (Departure Time: 10:20 AM)
12 PM Trips (Departure Time: 11:20 AM)
1 PM Trips (Departure Time: 12:20 PM)
Important Note:
All groups must meet at the University Student Center at their designated departure time. Most trips will require you to take the metro or walk!
Questions? Email [email protected]
Please review this section to ensure you have all the important details needed for an unforgettable Fam Fest 2025 weekend with your family!
Registration is required for all events and helps us ensure you have the best experience possible. Families and students can sign up through our registration portal, where you'll be able to select activities and events of interest.
Your ticket includes access to the Welcome Party, Basketball Game, and the Best of GW experiences. While registering, you’ll also have the option to add special event upgrades to your cart.
To register, you’ll be prompted to create an account through GW Family Connections. Once registered, a confirmation will be sent to your email, and if you need to make any edits, you can easily update your registration through your account.
Check-in is required for all attendees and will be available at the following times:
At check-In, you and your family can pick up your welcome materials, event wristbands, and Fam Fest swag. Our team will be there to assist you and answer any questions you may have!
We’ve partnered with top hotels near GW’s campus to offer exclusive discounts for Fam Fest attendees! Click the links below and book your stay at any of our preferred hotels and enjoy special rates during the weekend:
A modern boutique hotel located just minutes from campus. Enjoy unique accommodations and an unbeatable atmosphere.
Book your Discounted Stay at Hotel Hive
Experience the comfort of this charming hotel near GW with spacious suites, perfect for families.
Foggy Bottom is conveniently located in the heart of Washington, D.C., close to three major airports, including Ronald Reagan Washington National, Washington Dulles International and Baltimore Washington International, as well as to Union Station where you can take the bus or train. The Foggy Bottom/GWU Metro stop is located right on campus, with service to the Orange, Blue and Silver Metro lines. Taxis are available throughout the city. Pricing depends on distance and the number of people.
The George Washington University’s Mount Vernon Campus is located at 2100 Foxhall Road NW, in the verdant Palisades neighborhood of Northwest Washington DC, just three miles northwest of the Foggy Bottom Campus. To access the Mount Vernon Campus, we encourage you to take advantage of the Vern Express, a free shuttle service connecting the Foggy Bottom and Mount Vernon campuses, which is available to all alumni and families. The schedule is available on the Vern Express website.
Paid parking is available in GW garages on both the Foggy Bottom and Mount Vernon campuses throughout Fam Fest. Parking is not free, and hourly or daily rates will apply. View the current rates here.
If GW garages are full, you may also find parking at 2000 Pennsylvania Ave. NW (entry on 20th St.), 1800 G St. NW (entry on 18th St.), and 2200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW (entry on 22nd St.).
GW is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible experience for all guests. If you or a family member require any special accommodations, please contact our office in advance at [email protected]
By attending and/or participating in this event you agree to grant the George Washington University and its authorized representatives permission to capture photographs, audio recordings, and/or video recordings, including those related to your involvement in the event. You further agree that any and all of the photographs or recordings may be used, in any form, as part of any future publications, brochures, websites, or other printed or digital materials used to promote the university, and further that such use shall be without payment of fees, royalties, special credit, or other compensation.
Review GW's Statement of Privacy Practices for more information. If you have concerns, please contact [email protected].
Explore the Flavors of GW's Neighborhood!
Our restaurant partners are rolling out the red carpet for Fam Fest! During the weekend, flash your Fam Fest lanyard at participating restaurants to enjoy exclusive perks, discounts, or special menus. These local favorites are excited to welcome Revolutionaries and their families.
Known for their famous fried chicken sandwiches. Find them at Western Market, 2000 Pennsylvania Avenue NW and enjoy a 15% discount with your Fam Fest lanyard.
Enjoy hand-rolled, boiled bagels and tasty breakfast or lunch options. Visit them at Western Market, 2000 Pennsylvania Avenue NW and take advantage of a 15% discount.
A cozy spot offering classic American comfort food with a twist. Located at 2036 G Street NW, they're offering a 15% discount during Fam Fest.
