Family Day
Begin Your Year Strong
Family Day is the first big event of the year for students and their families and this year is the same day as the first home game for our Lion Football team.
2025 Family Day
Family Day is the year’s first big event for Lions and their families! We invite you to join us for a fun-filled day with a service project, photo scavenger hunt, Lion athletic events, time with your student, and tons of Lion Spirit!
Below is the check-in time and location:
September 27
General Check-in 10 a.m. to noon at the Rayburn Student Center (Club – next to Chick-fil-A)
Lion Food Pantry Drop Off Location 10 a.m. to noon at the Performance Arts Center (This will be a drive-thru drop off of donation items)
VISIT East Texas A&M WITH EASE!
Do not worry about parking on campus. You will not need a parking pass. The only locations requiring parking passes are Lots 1-4 for the Saturday, September 27 football game.
Explore the Agenda and FAQs
Be sure to download the Accelevents App – sent via email after registration.
Throughout Family Day we will have a photo scavenger hunt competition. Get the official list at check-in! Be sure to tag @etamunsfp on Instagram to be entered to win exclusive gear! Winners will be announced via Instagram Live the following week – prizes can be picked up by your Lion student.
Agenda
| Event | Time | Description |
| Bois d'Arc Bash | 6 to 10 p.m. | This two-day event is hosted by the City of Commerce and not affiliated with ETAMU New Student & Family Programs 2025 Family Day. We wanted to share what is going on in the city of Commerce, in case you and your family want to explore |
| Pre-Game Event | 7 to 8:30 p.m. | Hosted by the Office of Student Engagement |
| Event | Time | Description |
| Bois d'Arc Bash | 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. | This two-day event is hosted by the City of Commerce and not affiliated with ETAMU New Student & Family Programs 2025 Family Day. We wanted to share what is going on in the city of Commerce in case you and your family want to explore |
| Check-In and Service Project Drop-Offs | 10 a.m. to noon | If you indicated you were donating items to the Lion Food Pantry you will have a drive-thru drop off outside of their office located at the PAC. General Check-In for all guests is located at the RSC. We will also be hosting various crafts for all ages. |
| Planetarium Demos | 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. | We will be hosting three 10-minute shows starting at 11:30, noon, and 12:30. Seating is limited and each demo will begin promptly at the start time. |
| Lions Volleyball vs UIW $ | 1 p.m. | Come cheer on the Lions Volleyball team – discounted ticket link emailed to Family Day registrants. |
| Tailgate | 1 to 6 p.m. | Explore the new and improved Lion Football tailgate. We have made this time for you to explore with your Lion. |
| Cool Off at the Welcome Center | 3:30 to 5 p.m. | Enjoy an exciting game of BINGO with fun prizes before the Lion Family Photo |
| Family Day Group Photo & Family Walk | 5:15 p.m. | Meet at the Welcome Center LION sign for a quick photo and walk into Memorial Stadium as a group. |
| Lion Football vs NC Central $ | 6 p.m. | Come cheer on the Lions as they take on NC Central. Discounted ticket link sent via email after registering for Family Day. |
| Event | Time | Description |
| Lion Soccer vs UIW $ | 1 p.m. | The Lion Soccer team is taking on UIW. Discounted ticket link sent via Family Day confirmation email. |
Frequently Asked Questions: Plan Your Visit
Is there a registration fee, and what does that include?
NO! Family Day registration is free – there are some additional items you can add on to purchase, such as t-shirts and athletics tickets.
Who can attend Family Day?
This is an ideal time for families of all students to experience East Texas A&M. We invite parents, siblings, aunts and uncles, grandparents and anyone else in your family to join us for an exciting day!
Can I register on-site?
YES! Please arrive to the Rayburn Student Center between 10 a.m. and Noon. Please note that t-shirts are pre-order ONLY
When is the registration deadline?
Do I have to check in for Family Day?
Yes! You will need to check in to get your Family Day packets with all your materials for the day.
Where should I stay for Family Day?
There are a number of hotels in Hunt County and Hopkins County to suit your needs! Commerce, Greenville (approx 14 miles from campus), and Sulphur Springs (approx 20 miles from campus) all offer accommodations that are a short drive to campus.
Where can I park during Family Day?
Family Day is on a home football game weekend and VIP parking is available for purchase or you are welcome to park anywhere outside of Lots 1-4. Tailgating and VIP parking spot links were sent via email to registrants.
Can my student check in for our family?
Yes, your student can check you in and gather your items. Please make sure your student brings their East Texas A&M Lion Card (student ID).
I have another question that was not answered here.
For any additional questions, please contact [email protected]
I have a family member who needs special accommodations. Who should I contact?
If the accommodations are for athletic events, contact [email protected]. Please indicate on the registration form if any member of your family has dietary restrictions. If you have a family member who requires special accommodations, please email Marcus Hawkins at least 10 days in advance to ensure reasonable accommodations can be provided for each event.
Contact Us
- New Student and Family Programs
- 903.886.5088
- [email protected]
- P.O. Box 3011
- Commerce, TX 75429-3011
