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Fall 2026 Parent & Family Weekend | October 23-25
Parent and Family Weekend is a special opportunity for families to experience life at Coastal Georgia, connect with the campus community, and create lasting memories with their Mariner. Join us for a weekend of celebration, engagement, and Coastal Georgia traditions.
Friday, October 23 | ||
5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. | Weekend Check-In/Welcome to Town Reception | Student Solution Center |
Officially begin your weekend with the Welcome to Town reception in the newly renovated Student Solution Center. Mingle with campus leaders, enjoy light refreshments, and pick up your Weekend Welcome Packet. Some of your favorite Mariners will be around to provide recommendations for dinner in the Golden Isles and to help you build your schedule for this "choose your own adventure" event. | ||
5 p.m. - Check-In 7 p.m. - Race begins | Salty's Spooktacular Glow Fun Run 5K | CCGA Tennis Courts |
Grab your costume, lace up your sneakers, and get ready to glow hard or glow home. Whether you're running, walking, or just here for the dance party, Salty's Spooktacular 5K Glow Run is your chance to shine - and support something meaningful while you're at it! Proceeds go to support the Coastal Georgia Alumni Association. Click here to register. | ||
6 p.m. until | Dinner on your own | The Golden Isles |
Take the evening to explore the culinary treasures of the Golden Isles. Whether you're craving a cozy bite in historic downtown Brunswick or a seaside feast on St. Simons Island, there's something delicious waiting for every palate. A few of our local favorites include: Tipsy McSway's - A lively spot with great food, music, and local charm. Reid's Apothecary - A stylish downtown eatery offering elevated Southern dishes in a vintage-inspired setting. Southern Soul BBQ - A St. Simons staple serving up smoky, soulful barbecue. Fiddlers - Marsh-front dining with fresh seafood and unbeatable views. And if you're feeling festive, head over to Jekyll Island for the Shrimp & Grits Festival, where you'll find live music, artisan vendors, and mouthwatering coastal cuisine. Cap off the night with a spectacular fireworks show at 7:15 p.m., lighting up the sky over the Atlantic. | ||
Saturday, October 24 | ||
9 a.m. - 10 a.m. | Morning Yoga with Athena | SAC Back Patio |
Greet the morning with a gentle yoga flow led by Athena, one of our most beloved instructors. Set against the backdrop of beautiful Lake Teel, this session is the perfect way to center yourself before a day of festivities. Bring your mat and breathe in the coastal calm. | ||
10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. | Destination: Coastal - Parent & Family Weekend Check-In Table | Campus Center Lobby |
For families who couldn't make the Welcome to Town reception, be sure to stop by the Parent & Family Weekend Check-In Table to pick up your Weekend Welcome Packet. While you are there, say hello to the prospective families visiting for our Destination: Coastal Campus Visit Day, and catch up with some of the campus support services your student has access to at Mariner Marketplace (beginning at 11:45). | ||
11 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Homecoming Tailgate Campus Bookstore Open | SAC Lawn |
Put on your Mariner blues and join us for a lively homecoming tailgate celebration! Enjoy lawn games, live entertainment, the club and org showcase, and other activities as we celebrate our Coastal pride. The 2 lunch tickets you receive in your Weekend Welcome Packet will be good for lunch in Mariners Galley...or let's go Dutch Treat at the Food Truck Round Up. Either way, we invite you to share a meal and enjoy time with your student. | ||
3 p.m. - 6 p.m. | 2026 Season Kick Off Men's Basketball Game | Coffin Gym |
There's nothing quite like a packed house during Homecoming Weekend. Join us as the Mariners take the court and Coastal Georgia comes together for an afternoon of basketball, school spirit, and celebration. Cheer on our student-athletes, help us recognize our Homecoming Royalty, and enjoy one of the signature events of Parent & Family Weekend. We hope you'll be there to make some memories and help create a true home-court advantage for the Mariners. | ||
10 a.m. - 9 p.m. | Jekyll Island Shrimp & Grits Festival | Jekyll Historic District Jekyll Island, GA |
Parent & Family Weekend coincides with a coastal favorite - the Jekyll Island Shrimp & Grits Festival. This internationally acclaimed event combines the classic southern dish with family-friendly entertainment, artists market, live music, food, and more. The island comes alive during this fun-filled festival. If you don't make it on Friday night for the fireworks, be sure to stop by on Saturday to see Jekyll Island at its best! | ||
Sunday, October 25 | ||
11 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Parent & Family Weekend Bye Bye Brunch | Mariners Galley Dining Hall |
Before you set sail for home, you and your student are welcome to grab an informal brunch in Mariners Galley Dining Hall. It's the perfect way to reflect on the weekend and share one last meal with your student. Discounted rates available for parents and families. | ||
Travel Information to the Golden Isles
By Car:
Brunswick is easily accessible via I-95, located between Savannah, GA, and Jacksonville, FL. The College of Coastal Georgia is located at:
- One College Drive, Brunswick, GA 31520
By Air:
- Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK) – 15 minutes from campus
- Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) – ~1 hour south
- Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) – 1.5 hours north
Local Transportation:
Rental cars are available at all airports. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, though availability may vary. Parking is free on campus.
Lodging Recommendations:
While there’s no official hotel for Parent & Family Weekend, families have plenty of great options to choose from across the Golden Isles. Many visitors stay along the I-95 corridor in Brunswick for convenience and value, while others enjoy the charm of boutique hotels or short-term rentals in historic downtown Brunswick. For a more resort-style experience, consider one of the beautiful hotels or beachfront properties on St. Simons Island or Jekyll Island.
The College also partners with select local hotels through our Mariner Mates program, offering special rates and perks for CCGA families. To explore these options, visit the Hotels & Lodging section of the Mariner Mates website.
Do I need to register for Parent & Family Weekend?
Yes! Registration helps us prepare welcome packets, food tickets, and ensure a smooth experience. You can register here.
Is there a cost to attend events?
Most events are free for registered families. Your welcome packet includes two lunch tickets for Saturday and access to all scheduled activities. Additional costs apply for Salty’s Spooktacular Glow Run, additional dining, or other off-campus activities.
Where do I check in when I arrive?
Check-in begins Friday evening at the Student Solution Center during the Welcome to Town Reception (5:30 – 7 p.m.). If you arrive Saturday, visit the Parent & Family Weekend information table in the Campus Center Lobby between 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and casually. Coastal Georgia weather in late October is typically mild, but layers are recommended. Don’t forget your Mariner blue for the Homecoming Tailgate and Basketball Game!
Can I bring younger siblings or extended family?
Absolutely! Parent & Family Weekend is open to all who want to celebrate with their student. Activities are family-friendly and welcoming to all ages.
Where can I park on campus?
Parking is free and available in most lots across campus, excluding Mariner Village or Lakeside Village.
Will campus dining be open?
Yes! Mariners Galley Dining Hall will be open throughout the weekend, including for lunch on Saturday and the Bye Bye Brunch on Sunday. Food trucks will also be available during Saturday’s tailgate.
What if I miss Friday’s check-in?
No worries! You can check in Saturday morning at the Parent & Family Weekend Table in the Campus Center Lobby from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Is the Glow Fun Run open to everyone?
Yes! The Salty’s Spooktacular Glow Fun Run 5K is open to all participants. Costumes encouraged! Proceeds benefit the Coastal Georgia Alumni Association.
What’s happening off campus?
Explore the Golden Isles! Enjoy local dining, stroll through Downtown Brunswick, visit the Shrimp & Grits Festival on Jekyll Island, or check out the lighthouse and pier on St. Simons Island. It will be a great weekend to explore both on and off campus.