Mac Fest

Save the Date for Mac Fest, October 9–10, 2026!

Join us for a joyful weekend of connection, celebration, and community at Mac Fest! Activities will begin around 1 p.m. on Friday, October 9, and continue through Saturday evening, October 10. Whether you’re a Macalester alum, current or prospective student, parent or family member, faculty, staff, or friend of the college, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Registration for Mac Fest opens August 20!

While our full schedule is still being finalized, here’s a sneak peek at some featured events to help you start planning your weekend.

Highlighted Events

Friday, October 9

• Self-Guided Tours for Families and Alumni — 12:30–6 p.m.
  (Including the Tree Tour & Poetry Tour)
• Highland Hunt — 1–4 p.m.
  Scavenger hunt—find Coo!
• Campus Open Office Hours — 2–3:30 p.m.
• Coo Sculpture Installation Ceremony — 3:30–4 p.m.
• Academic Summer Showcase 2026 — 4–5:30 p.m.
• M Club Hall of Fame Banquet — 6–9 p.m.
• Theater Performance — 7–8 p.m.
  Doors open 6:45 p.m.
• Student Music Concert — 8–9 p.m.
  Wind Symphony, Symphony Orchestra, and MacJazz

Saturday, October 10

• 5K Fun Run/Walk — 8–10 a.m.
• Parent Town Hall with President Rivera and Senior Leaders — 10:30–11:30 a.m.
• Coo on Campus — 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
  Welcome back Hartnett, a real visiting Highland cow!
• M Club Cookout — 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
• Mac Football vs. Saint John’s — 1–3:30 p.m.
• Center for Study Away Panel — 1–2 p.m.
• Ethics Bowl Demonstration Round — 4–5:30 p.m.
• Theater Performance — 7–8 p.m.
  Doors open 6:45 p.m.
• Student Music Concert — 8–9 p.m.
  Asian Music Ensemble, Chorale and Concert Choir, and African Music Ensemble

And throughout the weekend, enjoy self-guided tours, Athletics alumni get-togethers, sports events, spiritual community services, open houses, gallery hours, and more.

Please note that events and events times are subject to change. This is not the complete schedule. We’ll continue adding programming through September, so check back soon for the latest updates!

Email [email protected] with questions.