Frequently Asked Questions
What is Alumni and Parents Weekend?
Alumni and Parents Weekend at Homecoming is UC Berkeley’s largest annual gathering for thousands of alums, parents, and families to come together for three days of fun. Festivities include parties for milestone years and clubs and organizations, family events, Oski Wow Wow, Bear Affair Tailgate BBQ, the Homecoming football game, lectures and other learning opportunities, special tours, open houses, engagement with fellow Bears, and more. In 2024, it will take place October 18–20.
How can I get updates about Homecoming?
Confirm that we have your current contact information. Alums, submit your updates via the @Cal alumni network; parents and family members, fill out the Cal Parents & Families form; and friends, contact us directly.
Are events recorded?
We recorded many of the lectures, tours, and other events in 2023 and posted the videos to a YouTube playlist. All of the direct links for the virtual events were also be posted in the individual event pages. If you’re looking for even more content, you can revisit the 2022, 2021, and 2020 playlists.
How do I register?
Registration for the 2024 weekend begins in July.
How much does it cost?
Prices vary based on the events you choose to attend. The Class Pass costs $35 and provides unlimited access to lectures, tours, open houses, and all of the amenities offered at Homecoming Headquarters. Individual events range in price. When you purchase admission to individual events, the Class Pass is included at no extra charge.
Does registration include tickets to the Homecoming football game?
No. Football tickets are sold separately through the Cal Athletics ticket office. A discount code will be available for Homecoming guests.
Want the chance to win free tickets to the 2024 Homecoming game? Sign up for special Homecoming updates, offers, and to be automatically entered to win four tickets to the game on October 19!
What if I’m on a budget?
The Oski Wow Wow package offers the most value for the price as it includes the Class Pass plus light refreshments at the Friday night celebration. Skip the rental car — and parking garages — and check out the public transit and free shuttle information under “How do I get to campus?” below. Many hotels in Berkeley, Emeryville, Oakland, and San Francisco offer discounts when you mention “UC Berkeley.” During Homecoming weekend, the Campanile and Botanical Garden waive entry fees. Discounts are also available at the student store and elsewhere. A full list of this year’s special campus offers will be included in the mobile app.
Can I change or cancel my registration?
Call 888.UNIV.CAL (888.864.8225) to change or cancel your registration before online registration ends October 4. Cancellations will be charged a $15 fee per order. Please note that all events take place rain or shine. Refunds will not be offered in case of inclement weather.
Where should I stay?
Go to visitberkeley.com for info on where to stay, dine, shop, and more. Make your reservations early as hotels do fill up and rates increase.
How do I get to campus?
Since parking is limited, we recommend public transportation. Visit 511.org or dial 511 on your phone for local bus and train schedules and maps. Ride-sharing services like Lyft and Uber are widely available in the Bay Area. Once you arrive on campus, Bear Transit shuttles are free thanks to our partners at Parking & Transportation. Just show your badge when you board. Staff volunteers will be available to escort you within campus grounds on golf carts for free. Stop by Homecoming Headquarters or any info booth to arrange for a pickup.
Where do I park?
We recommend public transportation to campus. If you choose to drive, paid public parking is available throughout the City of Berkeley all weekend and on campus Sunday. Charges and hours vary. See the Parking & Transportation website for details.
What do I wear?
Your favorite blue and gold clothes! For in-person events, be prepared for our Bay Area microclimates by dressing in layers. For virtual events, we also have virtual backgrounds to show your Cal spirit online.
How can my club or group hold an event during Homecoming?
We would be happy to work with you. See the Tools for Coordinators page for information.
Can I get the contact information for a classmate?
We are unable to give out personal info. Please email us your name and contact info and the name of the person you would like to reach. We will forward it to them on your behalf.
When are future weekends scheduled?
Alumni and Parents Weekend at Homecoming is scheduled as soon as the Cal football schedule is finalized and the Homecoming game determined.
How do I request an accommodation for disability access?
If you require an accommodation for effective communication (ASL interpreting/CART captioning, alternative media formats, etc.) or information about campus mobility access features in order to fully participate in this event, please call 888.UNIV.CAL (888.864.8225) or email homecoming@berkeley.edu 7 to 10 days before the event.
Do you have other questions you don’t see here?
Send us a message or call 888.UNIV.CAL (888.864.8225).