LET'S CELEBRATE
WE are celebrating you
Whether you are a first-year or fourth-year student, start your semester off right by celebrating with free food, prizes, fun events, and making new friends. You won’t want to miss out.
There are tons of Welcome UGA events all across campus and new ones being added every day. View the complete schedule to get a glimpse at what’s coming.
Keep an eye out for Welcome UGA text messages with updates on free food, fun games, and more.
Welcome UGA is your time to find your people and create memories. Join us and seize the opportunity.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Save the Dates for Fall 2026 Welcome UGA
Saturday, August 15 – Saturday, September 26
Please check back for event details.
Fall Welcome UGA starts Saturday, August 15 and runs through Saturday, September 26. Times and locations are subject to change.
Schedule Key
Auditory stimulation
This event may involve activities with auditory stimulation such as loud sounds, noice, and music
Large groups
This event may involve activities with large amounts of social engagement in groups, teams, or crowds
Visual stimulation
This event may include strong visual stimulation, such as bright colors, moving lights, or flashing/strobe effects
Physical activity
This event may involve physical activity, such as running, jumping, dancing, extended standing, or moving through crowded spaces
Optional alternative activity
This event has an alternative method of participation such as a viewing location or alternative way to engage with the activity
FRESHMAN WELCOME
Launch your UGA journey by learning game day cheers and traditions and forming the Power G on Dooley Field.
August 15
6:30 pm
Sanford Stadium
FIRST NIGHT
Join us in the Tate Student Center for one, massive kick-off celebration to welcome YOU to UGA!
August 15
8:30 pm
Tate Student Center
BULLDOG FRIDAY KICKOFF
On Fridays, we wear RED. Show your UGA pride and sop by for free food and exclusive UGA swag while supplies last.
August 21
11 am
Tate Plaza
NORTH OF THE ARCH
North of the Arch is an official welcome from the Athens community to your new home away from home. Explore Athens for a chance to win awesome prizes!
August 21
2 pm – 5 pm
Downtown Athens
The Engagement Fairs are designed to help students kick start their involvement at UGA. Explore 400+ student organizations and enjoy free food, t-shirts, and giveaways!
September 1
7 pm – 10 pm
Tate Student Center
The Engagement Fairs are designed to help students kick start their involvement at UGA. Explore 400+ student organizations and enjoy free food, t-shirts, and giveaways!
September 3
7 pm – 10 pm
Tate Student Center
BeWellUGA FEST
BeWellUGA Fest is the ultimate campus well-being expo by Well-being Resources! Connect with campus resources, try hands-on activities, meet therapy dogs, and enjoy free food and swag.
September 8
10 am – 1 pm
Tate Student Center
RAMSEY PALOOZA
Ramsey Palooza offers a late night, fun experience for students feat. stand up paddle boarding, rock climbing, wheelchair basketball, inflatables, fitness classes, and so much more!
September 10
7 pm – 11 pm
Ramsey Student Center
DAWG DAY OF SERVICE
Dawg Day of Service is UGA’s largest day of service, where you can serve and engage with nonprofits from the Athens area to create a better future.
September 19
9 am – 1 pm
Tate Student Center
TRANSFER WELCOME
A special welcome for incoming transfer students. Don’t miss out on free food, swag, and a chance to make new friends
Details coming soon!
