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Family posing with Cocky at the Family Weekend Tailgate.

Family Weekend

Spend an unforgettable weekend with your Carolina family enjoying fellowship, football and so much more!

Family Weekend is open to all families as it is the perfect way to get to know the Carolina community better. While you're in town, spend time learning all our thriving hometown — Columbia, South Carolina — has to offer, visit our historic USC campus and meet fellow family members and students. 

Traditionally, this event includes educational sessions, receptions, and a spectacular football tailgate prior to watching the Gamecocks play! 

 

SEPT. 17-20, 2026

Get excited for an unforgettable weekend your family will look back on for years to come. Stay tuned for details about Family Weekend events — registration opens in early July.

Registration Details
a banner reads Welcome Families in front of Longstreet Theater

Family Weekend Signature Events

Entertainment, food and beverages are provided at three key events for those who purchase a Family Weekend wristband in advance. Many additional events are hosted around campus throughout the weekend and free to attend. Family Weekend is widely accessible for those with disabilities.

  • Student and a younger kid playing corn hole.

  • Rock the Roost

    A fun Friday night Family Weekend tradition! Join us for food and drinks while we dance to the rockin’ sounds of the Reggie Sullivan Band.

  • Family gathered around a table at the Rock the Roost event.
  • Family with Cocky at the Rock the Roost event.
  • Parents dancing at the Rock the Roost event.
  • Person singing into a microphone playing the guitar.

President Meet & Greet

Stop by the President’s Meet and Greet to say hello to President Michael Amiridis and First Lady Ero Aggelopoulou-Amiridis, as they officially welcome you to Family Weekend! Visit the beautiful historic Horseshoe while enjoying a few hors d’oeuvres at this drop-in event.

Portrait of President Elect Michael Amiridis and his wife, Ero Aggelopoulou-Amiridis
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Family Weekend Tailgate Party

Join Cocky, Cocky's family, and the cheerleaders for the ultimate Southern tailgate! Enjoy live music from the Carolina Marching Band, classic tailgate food like BBQ, hot dogs, chicken fingers and more — right in the heart of the tailgating action at the Goodman Building at the State Fairgrounds.

 

 

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