VMI Opens Its Gates for Family Weekend 2025

One of the most anticipated weekends of the fall semester is just around the corner. From October 17-19, the Virginia Military Institute will host Family Weekend 2025, welcoming parents, siblings, and loved ones to Post. Between academics, military duties, athletics, and leadership demands, cadets often find themselves navigating a world far removed from home. Family Weekend provides a rare and meaningful pause for cadets, as well as a chance for families to see firsthand what life at VMI entails and to experience the discipline, routine, and pride that define cadet life. The weekend also reinforces the shared spirit of the Institute. As families fill the Parade Ground, cheer from the stands, or walk the Barracks, they become part of the rhythm that binds the VMI community together. Below is the schedule of events for Family Weekend 2025. Friday, October 17 - Parents Council Meeting (7:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m., Marshall Hall): Parents Council members gather for annual updates and discussions. - Attend Classes (9 a.m.–3:25 p.m.): Families may accompany cadets to classes and experience the academic rigor firsthand. - Luncheon (11 a.m.–1:30 p.m., Crozet Hall): Families dine together with faculty and staff; $10.25 per person, children under nine free. - Faculty & Advisor Meetings (1–3:25 p.m.): One-on-one appointments to discuss academic progress. - ROTC Open Door (1:30–2:30 p.m., Kilbourne Hall): Learn about VMI's Army, Navy, and Air Force ROTC programs. - Baseball Scrimmage (5 p.m., Gray-Minor Stadium): The Keydets face Concord University in an informal matchup. - Evening Concert (6 p.m., Memorial Hall): Performances by the VMI Jazz Band, Glee Club, and Strings Ensemble. Saturday, October 18 - Barracks Open House (8–9 a.m.): Families visit cadet rooms and meet roommates. - Department Receptions (8–9:45 a.m.): Informal faculty and departmental gatherings. - Rifle Match (8 a.m., Kilbourne Hall): Keydet Rifle vs. Mt. Aloysius. - Honor Cadet Reception (8:30–10 a.m., 410 VMI Parade): Invitation-only event honoring distinguished cadets. - Parade (10:30–11:15 a.m., Parade Ground): A display of precision, pride, and military tradition that remains a Family Weekend highlight. - Lunch (11 a.m.–1 p.m., Crozet Hall): Second family luncheon. - Corps March Down (1–1:15 p.m.): Cadets form up and march to Alumni Memorial Field, marking the transition to game day. - Football Game (1:30 p.m., Alumni Memorial Field): VMI Keydets take on Samford University. - Men's Soccer (3 p.m., Patchin Field): Match vs. Furman University. Sunday, October 19 - Catholic Mass (9 a.m., Memorial Hall): Morning service for cadets and families. - Light Refreshments (10 a.m., Memorial Hall Foyer): Informal fellowship time. - Protestant Service (11 a.m., Memorial Hall): Multi-denominational closing worship. Throughout the weekend, the VMI Museum, Jackson House Museum, Preston Library, PX, and Bookstore will have extended hours. Families are also encouraged to explore downtown Lexington's historic sites, restaurants, and outdoor spaces such as McKethan Park and the Chessie Trail. Family Weekend also brings a few procedural details. Cadets may leave Post after Friday's Command Duty Mission and must return by midnight. Saturday's curfew is also midnight, following the football game. Sunday permits allow time with family until 8:30 p.m. Tailgating and parking follow regular game-day policy. Families should review parking maps, shuttle options, and tailgating rules in advance to ensure smooth access to Foster Stadium. For more information, full schedule updates, and parking details, visit vmi.edu/familyweekend