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Campus Life

Things to do at Loyola: August 20-September 3

August 18, 2026

The start of the new semester is here, and Loyola’s campuses are full of activities. Throughout the next two weeks, show your Rambler spirit at athletic events, connect with fellow Ramblers at Welcome Week, and join conversations with Jesuit leaders.  

Ramblers Welcome Day  

August 21, all day, Lake Shore Campus  

Students, faculty, and staff are invited for a series of events celebrating Loyola traditions and welcoming the newest Ramblers to campus. Featured events include:  

  • Coffee with Leadership  
  • University Convocation  
  • Sister Jean Statue Unveiling and Dedication  
  • New Student Welcome Procession and Cheer Tunnel  

Saturday of Service 

August 22, 9:30 a.m.–2 p.m., Damen Multi-Purpose Room  

Join Community Service and Action for a day of volunteer service in the Rodgers Park and Edgewater communities. Volunteers are encouraged to wear closed-toed shoes and prepare for work outdoors.  

Build-a-Bler  

August 22, 6 p.m.–9 p.m., Gentile Arena  

Students are invited to build their own stuffed Rambler in the style of Build-a-Bear workshop at this event hosted by the Department of Programming and the Center for Student Engagement. Supplies are first-come, first-served.  

Hustle to Hoyne  

August 23, 12 p.m.–3 p.m., St. Ignatius Plaza  

Cheer on the Men’s Soccer team as they face Northern Illinois at the Loyola Soccer Park. The game will begin with a pep rally on campus, followed by a mile march to the Park alongside the Band of Wolves and Spirit Teams. Free replica soccer jerseys are available for the first 500 students.  

First Day of Classes Celebration  

August 24, 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Damen Atrium and Terry Student Center  

Celebrate the first day of classes with events on both the Lake Shore and the Water Tower campuses with first day of class photos, treats, and giveaways.  

Pop into the Libraries  

August 24, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Information Commons 

Stop by the Information Commons to meet the University Librarians and learn more about Loyola’s study spaces and library services.  

One Love Open House 

August 25, 12 p.m.–2:30 p.m., Damen 116 and 126 

Join the Center for Inclusion and Belonging to connect with new and returning students, see the new CSIB Conference Room, and enjoy sweet treats. All Ramblers are invited to attend.  

Mocha with the Minister  

August 26, 9 a.m.–11:30 a.m., Damen Atrium  

Enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate while meeting with Loyola’s Campus Ministers.  

Water Tower Campus Block Party  

August 27, 4 p.m.–7 p.m., Water Tower Campus  

Join the Loyola community to kick off the academic year with a night of food, music, and fun on Pearson Street between Rush and State.  

Engagement Fair 

August 28, 2 p.m.–6 p.m., Lake Shore Campus  

Explore student organizations and ways to get involved in campus life at the Engagement Fair.  

Silent Disco 

August 29, 6 p.m.–8 p.m., Damen Multi-Purpose Room  

Choose a music channel, sing along, and enjoy a night of dancing and music with fellow Ramblers.  

Loyola Soccer Pack the Park  

August 30, 1 p.m.–3 p.m., Loyola Soccer Park  

Join the Loyola Women’s Soccer Team as they face Illinois State. Free shuttles will be provided to and from campus and the game, and the first 250 students can receive a free Loyola beach towel.  

Work in Progress: Faith, Work, and Vocation  

September 3, 6 p.m., Jo Ann Rooney Hall 

Join for a conversation between President Mark C. Reed and Fr. James Martin, S.J., bestselling author and Jesuit priest, inspired by Fr. Martin’s new book, Work in Progress: Confession of a Busboy, Dishwasher, Caddy, Usher, Factory Worker, Bank Teller, Corporate Tool, and Priest. The discussion will explore themes of faith, vocation, and service.  

 

Find more events on the University Calendar and LUCommunity.