Save the Date for 2026
We are so excited to welcome parents back to campus for Parents' Weekend 2026! Mark your calendar for September 18-20 and we'll see you on campus this fall. Let us know if you plan on coming to receive updates as we get closer to the weekend!
RSVP for Parents' WeekendCheck back in August for hotel and community discounts, and additional information.
To view Parents' Weekend events on the calendar, please set the month to September.
Hotel Partners
We've partnered with hotels around town to offer discounted rates for the weekend! Click the links below
Enjoy 10% ALL CMU sporting events throughout parents weekend! Use the code "PW2026" at checkout and have fun supporting our Mavily!
Off-Campus Events and Activities
There's so much more to the Western Slope than just CMU, If you are looking to get some time off campus, here are some of our favorite places and activities around our community.-
Palisade WineriesColorado Wine Fest Coincidentally, the Colorado Wine Fest, is happening the same weekend as Parent's Weekend! There are plenty of events, great wine, and GREAT food to be experienced and I would encourage you to at least take a quick trip out to the Napa Valley of Colorado and explore the different wineries, distilleries, and vendors in the beautiful eastern side of the valley in Palisade, Colorado.
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Town of PalisadeTour de Vineyards Sat. September 19th. Enjoy a 25 mile bike race through scenic Palisade
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Grand MesaColor Weekend Take a drive up to the Mesa, the world's largest flat top mountain, to take in some breathless views of the fall colors. This is the Perfect opportunity to get some fresh air and get a family photo for the holiday card.
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PalisadeFarmers Market 8/20 9:00-1:00pm Experience the Sunday Farmers’ Market in the “Best Small Town in the West!”
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Downtown Grand JunctionLocal Stores and Farmers Market Turns out this is the perfect weekend to visit the valley and be a part of Parent's Weekend. The City of Grand Junction has so many different events happening this weekend as well. From Beer and Trivia to Car Shows to Line dancing there is a little something for everyone!
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Downtown Grand JunctionCar Show Antique cars, muscle cars, and classic cars. Even motorcycles and electric cars are on display. The 2026 Car Show will take place on September 19 from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm on Main Street between 3rd and 7th Streets.
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Mesa County Fair GroundsGem and Mineral Show 8/19-8/20 40+ Vendors Indoors & Outdoors, Kids activities, Silent Auction, Fluorescent room, Silversmithing and Lapidary demonstrations, Free Parking, and Food Trucks.
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FruitaFarmers Market and Movie in the Park For the outdoor enthusiasts and folks who might just like a more laid-back quiet experience Fruita is a great place to get some riding in and a chance to visit a few great restaurants and breweries. The farmers market is always wonderful and the city is painting a mural, so you can leave your mark on the town. If you enjoy some movie watching you can always join in for the movie in the park.
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LomaPickin' in The Rockies 8/20 A grand ole time featuring the best country and bluegrass music around! Don't forget to check out the large selection of local vendors plus join our artists for the vocal and fiddle workshop
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Restoration VineyardsKatie and the Players Concert September 19 @ 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm. Katie and the Players is a soul and funk band based in Grand Junction, Colorado. Known for their powerhouse vocals and a “big gospel feel".
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Colorado National MonumentHiking The Grand Valley is home to some awesome hiking trails. The Monument can be seen from anywhere in Grand Junction but is stunning up close. There are trails for every skill level or if you'd prefer to experience the beauty from the drivers seat, It takes about an hour to go through the Monument along Rim Rock Drive.