Healthy Humboldt

4 p.m. - 6 p.m.

University Quad

Parent, Family, & Guest BBQ

Bring your family and guests to a casual, community-focused gathering to celebrate your arrival and connect with other new Lumberjacks and their support networks.

RSVP Here

3 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Cremery District, 9th & L Streets, Arcata

5th Annual Humboldt Obon Festival

Come celebrate Obon with us! Obon is a Japanese Buddhist custom to honor the spirits of one’s ancestors. We celebrate our Obon Festival in Humboldt style with a Buddhist blessing, Obon dancing, Humboldt Taiko performances, our ancestors’ tree, kids games, Asian food vendors, artists, and so much more. Find more information here.

9 a.m. - 12 a.m.

Meet at University Quad

Education Opportunity Program (EOP) Activity (EOP Students Only)

For EOP students only. Some of these activities include field trips, lab exercises, icebreakers with faculty and peer mentors, and more, specifically for Education Opportunity Program (EOP) students! In some cases, these activities are directly connected to assignments in your first semester courses, so you don't want to miss these!

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Library 027

Drop-in Advising (Optional)

Have a quick schedule update or advising question? Want to check in on your classes or just come see the Academic Advising Center? They will be here during your free time today!

Lunch

Take a break, refuel, and connect! Join us in the J Cafeteria for a relaxed lunch where you can meet fellow new students, chat with Orientation Leaders, and enjoy a tasty meal. This is a great time to recharge and get to know your campus community.

1 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

University Quad

Orientation Check-in

Get ready to dive into an exciting day filled with information, resources, and connections that will set you up for success. Meet your Welcome Week Ambassadors and receive all of your materials for orientation.

1 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Location TBA

Healthy Humboldt / Major Based Sessions

Some of these activities include field trips, lab exercises, icebreakers with faculty and peer mentors, and more! In most cases, these activities are directly connected to assignments in your first semester courses, so you don't want to miss these!

8 p.m. - 10 p.m.

JGC Rec Room

Housing's Got Talent (Optional)

Step into the spotlight at Housing’s Got Talent! Whether you sing, dance, juggle, joke, or do something totally unexpected—we want to see it! This is your chance to show off your unique skills and wow the crowd. Bring your A-game, cheer on your neighbors, and enjoy a night of unforgettable performances. Fame, fun, and bragging rights await—because in Housing, talent lives here!

8 a.m. - 9 a.m.

University Quad

Orientation Check-in 

Get ready to dive into an exciting day filled with information, resources, and connections that will set you up for success! After checking in, participate in chalking activities on the quads or head into the JVD early to relax and check out what's playing on the big screen.

9 a.m. - 9:15 a.m.

JVD Theater

Orientation Welcome

Step into the vibrant community of Cal Poly Humboldt with a warm welcome from President Richard A. Carvajal and the Associated Students President.

9:15 - 9:45 a.m.

JVD Theater

Dean of Students

Receive a warm welcome from Interim Dean of Students Ravin Craig and learn about Cal Poly Humboldt's commitment to student well-being and success.

9:45 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.

JVD Theater

Residence Life

Get to know the resources available to you within Housing & Residence Life. Learn what it means to be part of a residential community, what you can expect from us, and what is expected of you as a resident. We’ll cover important policies, resident safety, and how to set yourself up for success in your new home on campus. Start building your community and meet your Residence Life team!

10:15 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

JVD Theater

CHECKIT

A student leader from CHECK IT leads an open, honest, and empowering session about building a culture of consent and respect.

Break

Stretch your legs, chat with presenters, or relax before the next session. 

10:40 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

JVD Theater

Title IX & Campus Advocate Team (CAT)

Join us for an essential orientation session dedicated to Title IX and the Campus Advocate Team. Gain valuable insights and resources to ensure a safe and inclusive campus environment for all.

11 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

JVD Theater

Taking Care of You

Discover a holistic approach to wellness and explore the array of resources available to support your physical, mental, and emotional health on campus. From counseling to health center services, join us to learn how to prioritize self-care and thrive during your time at university.

11:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

JVD Theater

Surveys on Campus

This session introduces you to the crucial role of data in shaping university policies and practices. Learn about the collection, analysis, and reporting of institutional data, including enrollment, retention, graduation rates, and more. Discover how transparent, evidence-based planning and decision-making foster a culture of assessment and support student success and complete your first Humboldt Survey!

12 p.m. - 1 p.m.

The J Cafeteria

Lunch

Take a break, refuel, and connect! Join us in the J Cafeteria for a relaxed lunch where you can meet fellow new students, chat with Orientation Leaders, and enjoy a tasty meal. This is a great time to recharge and get to know your campus community.

1 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

JVD Theater

Safety Outdoors

Learn essential tips from Outdoor Adventures for staying safe while exploring the beautiful outdoors of Humboldt and California. From hiking trails to coastal adventures, equip yourself with the knowledge to enjoy nature responsibly and make the most of your university experience with confidence.

1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

JVD Theater

Student Leadership for Empowerment and Growth

Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of student life with our Student Leadership & Engagement Panel! Explore the myriad opportunities for involvement, celebrate diversity, and ignite your leadership potential. Join us to discover how you can shape your campus experience, foster meaningful connections, and leave a lasting impact on our dynamic community

Break

Stretch your legs, chat with presenters, or relax before the next session. 

2:40 p.m. - 3:40 p.m.

JVD Theater

Campus Resource Panel

This session brings together key campus partners to introduce the wide range of resources, programs, and services available to support students both inside and outside the classroom. Students will hear directly from staff and campus leaders, ask questions, and learn how to connect with the right offices throughout their time at Cal Poly Humboldt.

3:40 p.m. - 4:15 p.m.

JVD Theater

Lumberjack Commitment

Join us for an inspiring and interactive introduction to what it means to be a Lumberjack at Cal Poly Humboldt. In this session, we will explore the Lumberjack Commitment, a shared pledge that embodies the values of Integrity, Respect, Accountability, Responsibility, Compassionate Collaboration, and Cultural Humility.

8 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Hill Quad

Cozy Night (Optional)

Spend the evening relaxing with arts and crafts, DIY, board games, and good company. Drop in, get creative, and enjoy a cozy night with friends and neighbors. Put on your slippers, your sweats, or your fleece and get cozy!

11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Location TBA

Healthy Humboldt Sessions / Lab Rotations

Some of these activities include field trips, lab exercises, icebreakers with faculty and peer mentors, and more! In most cases, these activities are directly connected to assignments in your first semester courses, so you don't want to miss these!

4:30 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Starts & ends at the Harry Griffith Hall Bike Station

All-Abilities Group Bike Ride (Optional)

Join us for an easy ride from campus to the Arcata Marsh on the Humboldt Bay Trail. No bike? No problem! Show up for FREE use of a bikeshare bike! We start and end the ride at the bike station in front of Harry Griffith Hall (corner of Harpst St and B St). Meet other cyclists, experience the bike path and have fun!

7 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Forbes

Drop-In Basketball (Optional)

Join us for casual, non-competitive basketball open to all skill levels. No teams or registration required, just show up, play, and enjoy the game. Great for staying active, meeting other players, and having fun in a relaxed environment. Bring your sneakers and get ready to shoot some hoops!

6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m.

JGC Rec Room & Cypress Lawn

Boba & Bingo (Optional)

Get ready for a night of sweet sips and big wins at our annual Boba & Bingo event! Sip on delicious boba, kick back with friends, and play rounds of classic bingo for your chance to win fun prizes. Whether you're here for the drinks, the games, or just good vibes—you won't want to miss this bubbly night of fun!

8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. 

Location TBA

Healthy Humboldt / Major-Based Field Trip

Some of these activities include field trips, lab exercises, icebreakers with faculty and peer mentors, and more! In some cases, these activities are directly connected to assignments in your first semester courses, so you don't want to miss these!

12 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Library 027

Drop-in Advising (Optional)

Have a quick schedule update or advising question? Want to check in on your classes or just come see the Academic Advising Center? They will be here during your free time today!

2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Fieldhouse

Drop-in Zorb Soccer (Optional)

Join us for Drop-In Zorb Soccer! Bounce, roll, and score in giant inflatable bubbles. Fun, laughter, and new friends await—drop by anytime!

2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Student Recreation Center

Drop-in Climbing Session (Optional)

Stop by the Student Recreation Center for a fun, low-pressure drop-in climbing session! Whether you’re a seasoned climber or trying it out for the first time, all experience levels are welcome. Gear is provided.

3 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Kate Buchanan Room (KBR)

Cultural Center Mixer (Optional)

Come meet the teams from El Centro Académico Cultural, ITEPP, ADPI MENA, and Umoja! This mixer is a chance to connect with staff and students, learn about upcoming events and programs, and discover how each center can support your journey at Cal Poly Humboldt. Snacks and community await! All are welcome.

4 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Meet in front of the SBS

Campus Tour (Optional)

Explore key academic buildings where you'll attend classes, discover the heart of campus life, and hear fun facts about our Cal Poly Humboldt's history and traditions. Please bring your class schedule.

5 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Meet in front of the Harry Griffith Hall to catch the shuttle

Friday Night Market (Optional)

Arcata welcomes you to your new home! Check out the Arcata Night Market featuring local businesses, music, booths and more! First 500 new students get a $20 voucher to buy food and drinks! (Shuttle will go back and forth from 5-8pm.)

8 p.m. - 12 a.m.

Great Hall

Disco (Optional)

Get ready to bring your bling and strut some sequins! Join Residence Life for a night of flashing lights, groovin' tunes, and boogie moves in the Great Hall of College Creek to find your group of Shining Stars, Dancing Queens, and Dance the Night Away!

Chalking Day

Kick off the semester by adding some color to campus! Join fellow residents for a fun and creative sidewalk chalk event where you can decorate walkways, share welcoming messages, and help beautify your residential community.

10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Meet in front of HGH to catch the bus, or meet at HBAC (921 Waterfront Dr, Eureka, CA 95501)

Open Boathouse Tour (Optional)

Check out the Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center (HBAC), meet the rowing teams, go kayaking, and learn to use the rowing machine! You’ll also learn about the wide array of outdoor activities we offer at deeply discounted rates for Cal Poly Humboldt students—from coastal hikes and backpacking trips to paddle tours and skill workshops.

A bus will bring students from campus at Harry Griffith Hall (HGH) to HBAC every 30 minutes starting at 10 a.m. or you can meet at HBAC.

Area Meetings

Kick off the year at your Area Meeting, where you'll get to meet your RA, RLC, and fellow residents! This essential gathering will cover everything you need to know about living on campus—housing policies, facilities info, community guidelines, and exciting programming opportunities. You'll also learn how to get involved, connect with resources, and make the most of your time in campus housing. Come with questions, leave with everything you need to feel right at home!