We are so excited to welcome the whole family to Northfield. Here are a few opportunities to explore campus and attend events throughout Reunion weekend. While there are many events and programs scheduled please also see your Class Hosts in your class lounge for more fun activities.
Previous Family Friendly events!
- Wee Carls Children’s Story Time
- Folk Song Singalong
- Bird Walk
- Magician
- Block Party
Camp Carleton – Note: Registration for Camp Carleton is closed
Camp Carleton provides interesting and fun activities for children who are from 6 to 15 years old (at the time of Reunion). We are not able to accept children who are not at least 6 years old for this program. The program is very popular and early registration is recommended. We are unable to offer same-day registration. There will be time on campus in our morning sessions to explore the Arb, enjoy picnics, play yard games, and engage various age appropriate activities under the supervision of our Camp Carleton director and student staff.
We are also offering field trip opportunities to visit the River Bend Nature Center this year.
Friday afternoon at River Bend Nature Center:
- Pond Dipping: Discover the wild world of pond life! We’ll be using nets, buckets, and a dichotomous key to identify macro-invertebrates that dwell below the surface of the water.
- Compass Course: You’ll be taught how to use a compass and then practice on River Bend Nature Center’s compass courses that wind through a maple-basswood forest.
Self Guided Campus Opportunities:
Additional activities include the Future Carl VIP pass for all those littles who may want to find the Carleton Creatures all around campus. Teens are encouraged to check out supplies from the Rec Center to enjoy on their own or with friends, visit the Libe, and take a campus tour as well throughout the weekend. Teens may also attend classes at the Rec Center if supervised by an adult.
Bringing prospective Carls?
If you have a high school student who is interested in Carleton, you may wish to review the Admissions visit page. General campus tours will be offered to all alumni on Friday, June 20 at 10:00 am and 3:00 pm. These begin at Scoville Hall and prospective students are welcome to join. The Carleton Admissions Office will be open on Friday of Reunion weekend from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. You can also add your child to the mailing list to receive Admissions publications.
Family-friendly spots in Northfield
A list of family-friendly events can be found on the Reunion Schedule. In addition, there are many activities around Northfield to do with children and families.
- Central Park, 421 4th St E. This park is adjacent to the Weitz Center of Creativity and across the street from Parish House. A large playground, swings, and lots of green space make this park a family favorite.
- Northfield Public Library, 801 Washington St. The public library, located near Carleton, has been extensively remodeled and includes an expanded children’s area. The library offers many children’s programs and events; see the library calendar for times and program information.
- Northfield Pool, 801 7th St E. The community pool features a separate toddler pool, zero-depth entry, a 50-meter section, a diving board, a 1/2-court basketball court, a climbing wall, a concession stand, and plenty of decks and grass space for everyone to enjoy. (NOTE: The pool is opening behind schedule due to a pipe leak. Make sure to check their website to confirm they are open.)
