The Citadel’s Parents’ Weekend 2026!
Friday, October 9 – Sunday, October 11, 2026
Weekend Summary
Welcome to the 2026 Parents’ Day Weekend Parents’ Webpage! This page will get updated as we get closer to the weekend, but the information provided now will be enough to make your plans. To ensure you don’t miss any updates, make sure you are on The Citadel’s Parent and Family Portal.
Parents’ Weekend is a busy and wonderful time for the families and friends of our cadets. Everyone is welcome. Please take your time to read through this page and the three accompanying pages. Consult the Parent and Family Portal and The Citadel Family Association Facebook page for updates.
Don’t forget about the Clear Bag Policy. Although the article only refers to Athletics, it also applies to the Ring Walkthrough Ceremony on Friday night.
Let’s start with a look at the General Leave Schedule for the weekend then a summary of each day’s events. At the end of each page, you can click on a specific day to get a more detailed description of the events and our recommendations. If you have a hard time with Military Time or just want to double-check, click here for a converter website.
General Leave Summary
Action Item for Parents and Families:
As we get closer make sure you verify the times with your cadet
Friday
All cadets may leave after their last military duty – which for most is their last class. Classes end 1250.
Typical leave for Friday night:
- Seniors: overnight
- Juniors and Sophomores: must be back by 0100
- Freshmen: must be back by Midnight
Saturday Night*
General Leave begins after the football game and expires:
- Upperclassmen: must be back by 0100
- Freshman: must be back by midnight
*Note: The times above may be modified by the President at the football game based on the recommendation of the Commandant and the Regimental Commander.
Sunday
You can pick up your cadets as early as 0530
- Seniors: must be back by 2230
- Juniors, Sophomores and Freshmen: Must be back by 1950
Additional Information
Weather: Charleston weather can be unpredictable, but historically the temperature average is in the mid 80s. Please remember to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, bug spray and hydrate before arriving. You may want to consider bringing a hat for shade, or better yet, check out the Citadel bookstore for the latest in Citadel headgear!
Shoes: Keep in mind there will be a lot of walking, so make sure you wear some comfortable shoes!
Map: You can find the map of campus by CLICKING HERE.
Traffic: Traffic in Charleston is unpredictable, especially at rush-hour. Please plan accordingly, especially for the Friday night “Walk-through” Ring Ceremony.
Parking: Campus parking is a challenge; we do not have the room to fit all the cars coming onto campus at high traffic times. If you think you’ll fare better by coming after traffic dies down, you may find yourself parking off campus and being late for events. In the past, Public Safety has closed the gates to oncoming traffic by 0900. Consider a ride share like Uber or Lyft. Typically, the Brigadier Club offers parking across from the football stadium beginning at 0700 Saturday – cost is $15 for the day.
Handicap Services and Parking: Handicap parking as designated. CLICK HERE for FAQs
Start planning now for a great weekend by making early lodging and dinner reservations.
Go Dogs!
For each day’s events and recommendations, please click on the links below: