A Festive Family Weekend

Last weekend was certainly an eventful one. Carleton celebrated the inauguration of its 12th president, welcomed tons of guests for Family Weekend, and even hosted a regional ultimate frisbee tournament. My parents visited me in Northfield, and we spent time walking around campus, strolling downtown, exploring the Arboretum, and enjoying ourselves in the Twin Cities. It was wonderful to have them visit and also to see the family members of my friends. In this blog post, I’ll highlight several of my favorite experiences with my parents during their visit.

Grabbing Lunch in Downtown Northfield

By amazing coincidence, my high school Spanish teacher and her partner were in Minneapolis for the weekend to attend a former student’s wedding. To my delight, they visited Carleton’s campus to say hello during Family Weekend. I took them to Tandem Bagels, and my parents and I enjoyed their company over lunch. It’s always fun to show visitors the charming downtown area and introduce them to favorite cafes and shops.

Watching the Inaugural March

Right before the official installation of President Alison Byerly (Aly B. for short!), my parents and I watched the Academic Procession. Faculty and representatives from other schools marched to the Chapel decked out in their academic robes and regalia. It was nice to see some of my professors, previous President Steven Poskanzer, and others commemorate such a momentous occasion.

Exploring the Arb

Whenever my parents visit, they are keen on exploring the Arb. It’s a fantastic natural resource surrounding campus in which I frequently enjoy long walks. The scenery is stunning throughout the seasons, but its autumnal state is especially beautiful right now as the leaves change color and the sun filters through, enhancing their already vivid hues.

Visiting the Minneapolis Institute of Art

The last time my parents visited Minnesota to see me we went to the Walker Art Center, so this time we made a trip to the Minneapolis Institute of Art. The art was incredible to view, and in the couple hours we spent there, we walked through exhibits spanning Chinese art and architecture to galleries of European paintings.

Enjoying the Gorgeous Weather

This weekend was marked by spectacular weather. Bright, sunny, and without a cloud in the sky, it could not have been better for the smattering of events that took place on campus. From a special Late Night Breakfast, to a picnic dinner on the Bald Spot, to fireworks over the Lyman Lakes, to s’mores-making bonfires across campus, there were many events for students and their families to take part in. Family Weekend is always special, but it was exceptionally festive this year.

Zoë is a junior Sociology-Anthropology major who loves traveling and studying abroad, taking photos, and luxuriating in long walks in the glorious Arb. At Carleton, some of Zoë’s favorite pastimes include frequenting the various coffee shops in downtown Northfield, playing cello in the orchestra, participating in club soccer, and spending time with friends. Meet the other bloggers!