Families Weekend

alumna in orange jacket stands behind a table at RISD CRAFT as shoppers look at the jewelry on display

Held in October, our annual families event offers visitors abundant chances to connect with students, faculty and staff, and to explore studios and galleries. Throughout Families Weekend you’ll experience what makes RISD so special.

A lively fall tradition

Families Weekend events invite parents to see studios up close, speak with faculty, attend demos and exhibitions, and visit with their students. RISD Craft, a juried sale that takes place on Saturday, brings people together to showcase what’s happening at RISD.

We reserve a limited number of rooms at nearby hotels, motels and B&Bs for guests attending Families Weekend. Accommodations in the area fill up fast, so be sure to book in advance via our campus travel portal.

Save the Date for Families Weekend 2026: October 9–11

Nearly 700 RISD family members and friends joined us for Families Weekend 2025. From the top of College Hill to our Downtown studios, our campus buzzed with excitement and curiosity as students, faculty, staff, and alumni shared their RISD experiences through open studios, hands-on maker sessions, RISD Craft, and more. 

Enjoy a look back at the weekend’s memorable moments in our photo galleries (password risd1877), catch up on the resources and information from our panel recordings, and share your thoughts in our survey. 

We can’t wait to see you next year!

Contact us

Alumni and Family Relations is here to help you navigate your student's RISD experience. Email us at families@risd.edu or give us a call at 401 454-6656.