This weekend will be bustling on and off campus with dads and their students as today marks the first day of Dads’ Weekend.
The Student Alumni Relations Board chose the theme Lumber Joe Loves a Dad in Plaid, to celebrate the weekend.
Lauren Hamilton, senior program coordinator for Alumni Relations, said the theme is “fun and lighthearted” which is what Dads’ Weekend is all about.
Dads’ weekend became a University of Idaho tradition in 1935. Part of the weekend tradition includes a variety of events for students and their dads.
Laura Ehman, Dads’ Weekend co-committee chair, said there will an Iron Dad challenge at 4 p.m., Friday, at the VandalStore.
“It’s basically minute to win it games,” Ehman said. “College students and their dad join together as a team and compete against other teams in mini challenges.”
Additionally, a golf tournament will be held at 8 a.m., Saturday, at the Idaho Golf Course. Ehman said, it will consist of student and dad teams playing golf against other teams for the title.
After the Idaho football team takes on Texas State in the Kibbie Dome, Ehman said, dads and students are invited to end the day with a dueling piano dinner and show at 6 p.m. at the Best Western University Inn.
“This show was so much fun,” Hamilton said. “It gives you something to do after the football game.”
Ehman said to be prepared because the events are always busy, and in the past have brought in more than 200 participants.
Both Hamilton and Ehman said Dads’ Weekend is so popular because it gives a chance for students to show their dads’ a great time, and that they are appreciated.
“It’s like an extra Father’s Day. Who doesn’t want the whole weekend to revolve around them?” Ehman said.
Hamilton said Dads’ Weekend gives the opportunity for students and dads to have fun together. Ehman said students enjoy the chance to bond with their dads on campus, which is one of the main reasons Dads’ Weekend is such a great tradition.
“Dads and students like to be able to spend time together,” Ehman said. “It gives dads a chance to see their students progress from childhood to adulthood. Students really like to show off where they live and what they do away from home.”
Ehman said the Student Alumni Relations Board and the Dads’ Weekend Committee have been planning the events since May.
“Things get booked up pretty quick for Dads’ Weekend,” Ehman said.
The University also takes advantage of the event, Ehman said. Professors and the university have a chance to show dads where their students learn and how they are treated while attending the school.
“Personally, one of my teachers invited us to bring our parents to lecture on Friday,” Ehman said. “My professor said even her parents are going to be there.”
Hamilton said the VandalStore has ordered extra plaid in response to the theme, so students and dads will be able to gear up for the weekend.
According to Hamilton and Ehman, UI isn’t the only one making plans for dads this weekend. The Alehouse, in participation with Vandal Meats, will have beer and meat samples with live music and giveaways starting at 6 p.m. today. Tickets for the event can be purchased online for $15. Ehman said that she is excited to be a part of the committee this year for Dads’ Weekend because it is such a fun event for everyone involved.
“Parents usually live so far away,” Ehman said. “Dads’ Weekend is a great chance for dads and students to bond.”
Danielle Wiley can be reached at [email protected]