‘Vigil’ by acclaimed author George Saunders kicks off the new Campus Reading Program
May 13, 2026
As the spring quarter nears its close, take a break at finals relief, celebrate at a garden party and more. Here’s what to add to your calendar this week. As always, all are welcome!
Sweet victory
Celebrate Northwestern’s national championship field hockey and lacrosse teams with an outdoor ice cream social.
The event runs from noon to 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3, on University Lawn outside Scott Hall, 601 University Place, Evanston. More info.
Give some gratitude
As the academic year wraps up, join the Office of the Ombudsperson for an appreciation station. Write a supportive message to a colleague, classmate or friend on campus and the office will mail it on your behalf.
Stop by between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Thursday, June 4, at Norris University Center, 1999 Campus Drive, Evanston. More info.
Spring celebration
The Women’s Center hosts its 40th anniversary garden party — a chance to celebrate its decades of feminist education, community building and leading the campus in gender equity while enjoying live entertainment, food and community.
The garden party runs from 12:30–2 p.m. on Thursday, June 4, at the Women’s Center, 2000 Sheridan Road, Evanston. More info.
See the stars
Tour Northwestern’s historic Dearborn Observatory and look through its telescope during its weekly public viewing hours. The first hour is by reservation only, but the second is open to walk-ins.
Public viewing hours begin each Friday at 9 p.m. at Dearborn Observatory, 2131 Tech Drive, Evanston. Sign up for the reserved tour waitlist or walk in starting at 10 p.m. More info.
All together now
The combined Bienen choral ensembles present Sergei Rachmaninoff’s “All-Night Vigil” — a work both spiritually profound and sonically beautiful — together with other music of the Russian sacred tradition.
The concert is at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, in Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, 50 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. Buy tickets.
A break from the books
Students in search of a break from the finals grind are invited to take a breather and enjoy free food trucks, giveaways, lawn games and more at spring finals relief.
The event runs from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Monday, June 8, on the Mudd Library Lawn, 2233 Tech Drive, Evanston. More info.
