ALUMNI DAY 2026


Frequently Asked Questions

Alumni Day is a special celebration for Iowa alumni and their guests to return to campus, reconnect with classmates, and show their Hawkeye pride. Attendees can create their own experience with options like campus tours, inspiring talks, casual gatherings, and behind–the–scenes opportunities.

Alumni Day is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026. There are some pre–Alumni Day events scheduled for Friday, April 17. Please check the schedule of events for more details.

All University of Iowa alumni, students, faculty, and staff are welcome to attend with their families and friends.

Yes, registration is required to participate in Alumni Day activities. There are no physical or digital tickets; instead, you'll check in at the Levitt Center for University Advancement (1 Park Road, Iowa City) to receive your credentials badge, which grants access to Alumni Day events.

Online pre-registration is encouraged before April 17, though walk–ins are welcome. On-site registration will be available at the Levitt Center at:

  • 3–9 p.m. on Friday, April 17
  • 7:45 a.m.–2 p.m. on Saturday, April 18

Online registration for Alumni Day 2026 opens Feb. 17, 2026.

Yes, please register everyone who will attend with you.

There is no general fee for Alumni Day. However, some activities–such as tickets for softball or baseball games–may have associated costs. Please check the full schedule of events for additional ticket links.

Registration includes:

  • A swag bag with Iowa–branded items
  • A credentials badge and lanyard for event access
  • Exclusive discounts at participating downtown Iowa City business and restaurants

Note: Some events may require separate registration. Check the schedule for details.

The town–gown relationship in Iowa City is truly special. Many businesses you may remember from your student days — along with some exciting new establishments — are eager to welcome University alumni and friends back to the community.

When you check in at the Alumni Day headquarters, you'll receive:

  • A Downtown Hawkeye Pass, featuring shopping and dining options at more than 50 local businesses
  • A list of exclusive discounts available at additional participating businesses, accessible only with your Alumni Day credential

These special offers are our way of celebrating Hawkeye Spirit and supporting the local businesses that make Iowa City such a vibrant place.

Yes, while pre–registration is encouraged, walk–in registrants are welcome! Walk–in registration will be available at the Levitt Center from:

  • 3–9 p.m. Friday, April 17
  • 7:45 a.m.–2 p.m. Saturday, April 18

Visit the University of Iowa Hawk Shop at the Iowa Memorial Union from:

  • 8 a.m.–5 p.m Friday, April 17
  • 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday, April 18

When you pick up your Alumni Day credential badge at the Levitt Center, you'll receive a 20% discount on your highest–priced apparel or gift item. Some exclusions may apply.

While there is no official hotel block for Alumni Day, there are many options in Iowa City and Coralville. Check out our partners at Think Iowa City for a comprehensive list of accommodations.

The full schedule of events can be found on the Alumni Day home page. More events will be added in the coming weeks, so check back for updates.

Yes! Alumni Day headquarters will be at the Levitt Center for University Advancement (1 Park Road, Iowa City). All registrants should check in here to receive their credentials badge. Walk-in registration will also be available at this location from:

  • 3–9 p.m. Friday, April 17
  • 7:45 a.m.–2 p.m. Saturday, April 18

Free parking is available in the Hancher Parking Lot (Lot 55), conveniently located near many Alumni Day events. This lot sits just south of the Levitt Center for University Advancement, where you'll pick up your Alumni Day credentials.

If you prefer to park even closer to a specific event, the UI offers several public parking options for a small hourly fee.

And if you'd like to explore a bit, Iowa City has plenty of ramps and meters throughout town—perfect for finding the spot that suits your style (and your walking shoes).

The UI campus is beautifully maintained and easy to explore on foot. For longer trips (or when your steps need a break), the student–operated CAMBUS system makes getting around a breeze. CAMBUS offers free, accessible service on multiple fixed routes throughout campus and will include additional stops at the Hancher Parking Lot.
View Cambus shuttle details.

There is no formal dress code for Alumni Day, but we recommend dressing for the predicted weather as the Campus Village will take place outside. Show your Hawkeye pride by wearing black and gold!

Alumni Day will take place rain or shine. In the event of severe weather, venue changes may occur. Updates will be posted on the Alumni Day home page as needed.

This inaugural Alumni Day will be fully in-person. We hope to offer virtual options in future years!


© The University of Iowa Center for Advancement NOTICE: The University of Iowa Center for Advancement is an operational name for the State University of Iowa Foundation, an independent, Iowa nonprofit corporation organized as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, publicly supported charitable entity that works to advance the University of Iowa. Please review its full disclosure statement.

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