Good Times & Great Events
January 12 - 17, 2026
The Great Gator Welcome is your official kick-off to the semester. Campus departments and student organizations will host events with opportunities for you to meet new people, get connected to the Gator student experience, explore campus and just have fun!
Stay up-to-date with all the events at @ufstudentengage on Instagram!
Trivia Night
January 12 | Reitz Union Grand Ballroom | 7 p.m.
Come out to the Reitz Grand Ballroom and test your knowledge with musical trivia. There will be game style trivia with music to sing the night away to, a DJ, host and the amazing chance to win some prizes!
First Day Photos
January 12 | North Lawn, Marston Fries and Plaza of the Americas | 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
To commemorate the start of a new semester, take a first day of classes polaroid picture with IRHA, Student Engagement and the Great Gator Welcome at one of three locations, with the option to make crafts and eat snacks at each location.
Student Org Fair
January 13 | Reitz Union North Lawn | 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Looking to get involved on campus? The Spring Student Organization Fair is an opportunity to connect with over 300 student organizations and campus departments. You can meet with student leaders and join organizations based on your interest.
Gator Market
January 14 | Reitz Union North Lawn | 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Gator Market is a monthly outdoor market held on the Reitz Union North Lawn during the spring and fall semesters. The event brings together a variety of vendors—from local and student-owned businesses to university departments and student organizations. Find clothing, handmade goods, plants, jewelry, art, food and so much more.
Unity Fest
January 15 | Plaza of the Americas | 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
This event will be a carnival-style event to celebrate the life of Dr. King and there will be a Dream Wall included for you to write your dreams and aspirations.
Live From the Lawn
January 15 | Reitz Union North Lawn | 5 - 8:30 p.m.
Live from the Lawn returns January 15, brought to you by Student Government Productions and Swamp Records, with free live music, local artists, refreshments and campus vibes.
Gator Nights
January 16 | Reitz Union | 7 - 10 p.m.
Join us in the Grand Ballroom for Singo! In a twist on classic bingo, cards will have songs and artists listed rather than numbers. Listen closely, and when you're the first to shout "SINGO!", you'll win a vinyl record of your choice. Prize albums include a range of genres, from pop and country to hip-hop, folk and more!
Amazing race
January 17 | Reitz Union | 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
UF's Amazing Race is here! Teams of up to four friends will dash across campus, uncovering hidden locations and taking on mystery challenges. Find 8/10 stations to earn your free Gator Tee at the end of the event! The race kicks off at the North Lawn where some refreshments will also be available for our competitors. Gather your team, prepare for anything and get ready to race!
