All Day

International Students Airport Pickup
Welcome to your new home away from home! Our friendly staff can’t wait to greet our newest international students at airport arrivals and get you on your way to campus so you can start your university journey. Learn more.

Halifax Airport

All Day

International Move-In Day
International students, today you can check into your residence halls and begin transforming your new rooms into personalized spaces with the help of our dedicated move-in crew.

 

11:00am – 9:00pm

International Student Lounge
Drop by the Wong International Centre and enjoy a relaxing space where you can grab a snack, play a board game with new friends or ask any questions you may have upon arrival.

Wong International Centre

All Day

Residence Move-In
The Acadia Residence Life team has been excitedly preparing for your arrival, and our campus community is ready to welcome you with open arms. Learn more.

In Your Residence

All Day

ASU Lawn Party
The Acadia Students’ Union (ASU) Lawn Party will take over various outdoor spaces across campus which will come alive with vibrant music, classic lawn games, and a high-energy atmosphere perfect for breaking the ice.

55 University Avenue - Lawn

11:00am – 2:00pm

Parents & Supporters Welcome
Presented by the Associated Alumni of Acadia University
Welcome to the Acadia family! We invite all parents, guardians, and supporters to join the Acadia Student Services team and the Acadia Alumni Association at The Axe Bar & Grill to relax, connect with university staff and fellow families, and enjoy a complimentary beverage and snacks as we celebrate the exciting beginning of your student's new journey.

Axe Bar & Grill

12:00pm

Lunch
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

2:00pm – 3:00pm

Parents Q&A Session with Campus Representatives
Join us to meet faculty and staff who are here to support your student throughout their Acadia journey. Hear helpful insights, learn how you can support your student while encouraging their independence, and have your questions answered during our panel-style Q&A.

Axe Bar & Grill

5:30pm

Dinner
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

6:30pm

Residence Community Meetings
Hosted by your wonderful team of Residence Assistants (RAs), this is your essential kickoff to residence life, where you’ll connect with the people living in your building, get to know your RAs, and receive key information about where you live, including safety and community guidelines.

Your Residence

8:00pm

Garden Grooves
Kick off your Orientation Week with great tunes, free snacks, and a sneak peek at Wolfville's local music scene! Join us for the ultimate backyard concert experience featuring music from Colrain, the celebrated local favourite made up entirely of Acadia Alumni.

Harriet Irving Botanical Gardens

10:00pm – 12:00am

ASU Axe Hunt
Join the Acadia Students' Union (ASU) for Outdoor ASU Axe Hunt and a variety of exciting campus games. Team up with new friends and enjoy a night filled with friendly competition.

Roy Jodrey Hall - Quad

9:00am

Breakfast
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

11:00am

Welcome Ceremony
Join university leadership, classmates, and Acadia Alumni as we officially mark the beginning of your university journey. Hear from those who’ve walked these halls before you and see the room where you’ll eventually cross the stage as a graduate. All who attend will receive a special Acadia keepsake.

University Hall

12:00pm – 1:30pm

Welcome BBQ
This complimentary BBQ lunch is the perfect opportunity to meet new friends, connect with Faculty & Staff, and continue building your Acadia community.

University Hall Quad

2:00pm – 3:30pm

Acadia Campus Quest Tour
Ready to explore? Join your Orientation Leaders for an interactive scavenger hunt-style tour of campus where you'll discover key academic buildings, student services, hidden gems, and everything you'll need to feel confident finding your way around Acadia.

Fountain Learning Commons

3:00pm – 4:30pm

Geocaching with Steamspace
Explore Acadia’s campus through a geocaching challenge hosted by Steamspace. Find the hidden geocaches, then come back to Steamspace in Raymond House to receive an Acadia keychain and take a tour of Acadia’s makerspace. Drop in anytime during the event and complete the challenge at your own pace.

Raymond House, various locations

5:30pm

Dinner
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

7:30pm – 10:00pm

Silent Disco
Dance the night away at one of Orientation Week's most popular events! Grab a pair of headphones, choose your favourite music channel, and enjoy a unique dance party alongside your new classmates.

Axe Bar & Grill (ALL AGES DRY EVENT)

9:00am

Breakfast
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

10:00am

Unlocking the Library
Get to know one of the most important academic resources on campus! During this interactive session, you'll be introduced to the Vaughan Memorial Library, learn about research support and study spaces, and discover the services available to help you succeed throughout your degree.

Vaughan Memorial Library

10:30am

Getting the Right Start
Featuring key university expectations, student success strategies, and campus supports, this session is designed to help you transition successfully into the first few weeks of university life.

University Hall

12:00pm

Lunch
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

2:00pm

AI & University
Artificial intelligence is changing the way students learn, but how does it impact your Acadia journey? This session explores responsible and ethical uses of AI in an academic setting while sharing practical advice for using emerging technologies to support your learning.

K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre – Main Auditorium

2:00pm – 4:00pm

ASU Soccer
Join the Acadia Students' Union at Tower Fields for an afternoon of soccer and friendly competition. Whether you're looking to show your skills or simply have fun this is a great chance to get active and meet new people.

Crowell Tower - Fields

3:00pm

Understanding Your Study Permit
Designed for international students, this session provides important information about study permit conditions, maintaining your status, and understanding your responsibilities while studying in Canada.

BAC 138

4:00pm

U-Life Time Management
University life comes with new responsibilities and opportunities. Learn practical strategies for managing your time, balancing academics with life outside the classroom, and staying organized throughout the semester.

BAC 241

5:30pm

Dinner
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

8:00pm

Paint Night
Whether you're an experienced artist or just looking to have fun, Paint Night is a great opportunity to express yourself, meet new people, and take home your own masterpiece.

Fountain Learning Commons

8:00pm – 10:00pm

ASU Late Night Breakfast
Join the Acadia Students' Union for a free late-night breakfast. Connect with friends and enjoy this Acadia Orientation fan-favourite!

Axe Bar & Grill (ALL AGES DRY EVENT)

9:00am

Breakfast
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

10:00am

Wellness Expo
Meet campus and community partners, explore interactive booths, and learn about the services, programs, and supports available to help you thrive throughout your university journey.

Fountain Learning Commons

12:00pm

Lunch
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

2:00pm

Sex Savvy
Sex Savvy is an engaging and interactive session exploring sexual health, consent, healthy relationships, and safer sex practices. Through games, activities, and open conversation, you'll gain valuable knowledge while having fun.

BAC 241

4:00pm

Acadia Athletics Complex Walkthrough
Come explore the Acadia Athletics Complex (AAC) and discover everything they have to offer! Learn about the fitness facilities, recreational spaces, intramural programs, and ways to stay active and healthy throughout the year.

Acadia Athletics Complex

5:30pm

Dinner
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

7:00pm – 8:00pm

Queer 101
Join us for an interactive introduction to 2SLGBTQIA+ identities, inclusive language, and creating welcoming communities at Acadia. Whether you're a member of the community or an ally, this session is a great opportunity to learn, ask questions, and celebrate diversity.

BAC 241

8:00pm

Drag Show
Celebrate creativity, self-expression, and community at one of Orientation Week's most anticipated events! Featuring talented local drag performers, this high-energy show is an evening of entertainment, artistry, and celebration that you won't want to miss.

Festival Theatre

8:00pm

Acadia Intramurals
Looking to stay active and meet new people? Join Campus Recreation for an evening of fun, recreational sport on Raymond Field & Stu Aberdeen Court.

Acadia Athletics Complex

9:00am

Breakfast
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

9:30am

ASU Coffee Crawl
Start your morning by exploring downtown Wolfville with the Acadia Students' Union! Visit local cafés, discover student favourites, and get to know the town you'll be calling home throughout your university experience.

Axe Bar & Grill (ALL AGES DRY EVENT)

12:00pm

Lunch
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

12:30pm – 2:00pm

Tailgate
Get ready for game day with the Acadia Students' Union Tailgate! Join fellow students for an afternoon of music, food, and lawn games before cheering on the Axewomen.

Raymond Field

2:00pm

Acadia Rugby Game
Experience the excitement of varsity athletics and show off your Acadia spirit at the Acadia Women’s Rugby home opener.

Raymond Field

5:30pm

Dinner
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

8:00pm

Acadia's Got Talent
Do you have a talent you're ready to share? Whether you're singing, dancing, performing magic, playing an instrument, or sharing another unique talent, Acadia's Got Talent is your opportunity to shine.

Festival Theatre

8:30pm

Yoga Night
Open to both new and experienced participants, end the day by slowing things down with a relaxing evening yoga session.

Acadia Athletics Complex

9:30pm

Kickoff Jersey Night
Keep the energy going after the rugby game by joining the ASU for Jersey Night! Throw on your favourite jersey and join the Acadia Students' Union for a memorable night.

Axe Bar & Grill (ALL AGES DRY EVENT)

9:00am

Breakfast
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

10:00am

Community Trail Hike
Take a break from campus, experience the natural beauty of the Annapolis Valley, and discover some of the scenic trails surrounding Wolfville with this guided hike.

Acadia Woodland Trails

12:00pm

Lunch
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

2:00pm

Affinity Group Socials
Finding your people is one of the most exciting parts of your university journey. Through these affinity group socials, identified student populations can gather, connect, and build a lasting community.

• Black Students (Black Student Lounge - Rhodes Hall)
• 2SLGBTQIA+ Students (Clark Commons)
• Students with Disabilities / Accessibility Needs (Fountain Learning Commons - Room 139, Ground Floor)
• Mature & Transfer Students (Fountain Learning Commons - Alumni Boardroom, Second Floor)

Various

4:00pm

Welkaqnik Walk-in Welcome Hour
Welkaqnik (meaning “a place of good feeling”) is Acadia University’s Indigenous gathering space—a home away from home for Indigenous students and a place that fosters safety, connection, and community. Indigenous students are invited to drop in to Welkaqnik to explore the space, meet the staff of the Department of L’nu Affairs, and learn about the supports, programs, cultural events, and community spaces available at Acadia.

Rhodes Hall, Room 101

5:30pm

Dinner
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

6:30pm

EDI-101
This is not your average lecture: expect a dynamic session full of powerful insights, actionable takeaways, and vital conversations that will shape your university experience. You will leave equipped with the knowledge and tools to help foster an inclusive, equitable environment for yourself and your peers. Attend this session for your chance to win a 'When in Wolfville' gift card!

Fountain Learning Commons

8:30pm

Beats in the Quad
Join your classmates in the Roy Jodrey (ROJO) Quad for a high-energy outdoor dance party as we celebrate the friendships and memories made throughout Orientation Week.

Roy Jodrey Hall – Quad

9:00am

Breakfast
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

All Day

Returning Student Move-In
Returning students are welcomed back to campus as the Acadia community comes together for the start of a new academic year.

 

12:00pm

Lunch
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

1:00pm – 4:00pm

Wolfville Street Fair
Discover everything Wolfville has to offer! Through meeting local businesses, community organizations, and vendors, the Wolfville Street Fair is the perfect opportunity to connect with the wider community and support local.

Main Street

5:30pm

Dinner
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

6:30pm

ASU Capture the Flag
Join the Acadia Students' Union for an fun game of Capture the Flag! Combining teamwork and friendly rivalry, this event is the perfect opportunity to meet new people and make memories.

Chase Court – Courtyard

8:30pm

Movie Night Under the Stars
Bring a blanket, grab some snacks, and relax under the night sky for an outdoor movie.

Harriet Irving Botanical Gardens

9:00am

Breakfast
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

9:30am

Academic Faculty Sessions & Program Introduction

The academic faculty and staff of Acadia can't wait to meet you! Join the Dean of your program for a full faculty welcome at the locations listed.  From there, your individual units will take you to a session within your individual program of study so you can become acquainted with the spaces and key information you'll need to have a great start to your year.

Faculty of Professional Studies:

• Business Administration
• Community Development
• Kinesiology
• Music
• Nursing

Faculty of Pure & Applied Science:

• Applied Bioscience
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Computer Science
• Engineering
• Environmental Geoscience
• Environmental Science
• Geology
• Math & Stats
• Nutrition & Dietetics
• Physics
• Psychology

Faculty of Arts:

• Canadian Studies
• Classical Studies
• Economics
• English
• Environmental & Sustainability Studies
• French
• German
• History
• Law & Society
• Philosophy
• Politics
• Sociology
• Theatre
• Women's & Gender Studies

Faculty of Professional Studies: Denton Hall
Faculty of Pure & Applied Science: Huggins Science Hall 010
Faculty of Arts: Beveridge Arts Centre 244

12:00pm

Lunch
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

1:00pm – 5:00pm

New Minas Shopping Trip
Travel by bus with your classmates to New Minas, known as the shopping centre of the Annapolis Valley. You’ll be able to pick up any last-minute supplies you may need prior to classes officially beginning tomorrow!

Wheelock Dining Hall – Entrance

5:30pm

Dinner
(Included for meal plan holders; visit Dining Services for drop-in costs)

Wheelock Dining Hall

4:00pm – 6:30pm

ASU Club Extravaganza
Come join your classmates for the annual club fair to learn about student services, opportunities on campus, and exciting societies and events throughout the year! Whether you’re looking to join a club sports team, games and social club, or academic society, Club Extravaganza’s got you covered.

In front of the Student Union Building

7:00pm – 12:00am

ASU Club Mixer
Keep the party going at the ASU Club Mixer! Join club presidents, members, campus leaders, and student organizers for a night of music, drinks, and good times. Please note that alcohol will be served after 9:00pm, and those under 19 years old will not be admitted past this time.

Axe Bar & Grill (ages 19+)