Signature Events

On the last Saturday of each April, the university welcomes tens of thousands of visitors for a day of learning, exploration and fun. Units across campus come together to host nearly 400 free activities, performances and demonstrations that showcase the arts, sports, student and faculty research, UMD’s agricultural roots and much more.

Each fall, the university welcomes back alums to join current students for a week of reconnecting through events including the annual comedy show, a carnival on McKeldin Mall, Teddy’s Pup Parade, a limited-time-only Dairy ice cream flavor, and of course, the football game.

Find your thing at one of UMD’s longest-running traditions. The one-day fall event brings together hundreds of student clubs and organizations on McKeldin Mall. With demonstrations, giveaways and tons of information, it’s a big opportunity to learn more about how to get involved and connect with other students with similar interests. 

The annual spring celebration, first started in 1984, has long featured a concert featuring a national headliner such as Run DMC, Weezer and Outkast. In 2024, Grammy-nominated rapper Smino performed on the first night, and a pop hits dance party with giveaways, free mocktails, snacks and glow sticks followed the next night.