K Week kicks off with events for new and returning Wildcats

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LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 20, 2025) — This week, the University of Kentucky has been welcoming Wildcats to campus with Big Blue Move-In. Today, K Week kicks off, helping new students transition into life on UK’s campus. The week of events will run through Aug. 24.

K Week was created in coordination with the UK Office for Student Success to help all students find and build a community from the moment they step onto campus.

K Week offers programs and events designed to help incoming first-year students meet new people and learn about UK traditions and resources. It’s the best way to get started at UK.

“What excites me most about K Week is the opportunity to support new students during such a big transition and help them feel comfortable and confident on campus from day one,” said Colleen Bostic, 2025 K Board leader.

As the second step in the orientation process, all new undergraduate students are encouraged to participate.

“K Week is so important because it sets the tone for the rest of the year, helping students build connections, find resources and feel more confident navigating college life,” said Ivory Addo, 2025 K Board leader.

This year, more than 200 student leaders have been selected to mentor and lead K Teams of incoming students. K Team leaders will help incoming students navigate the campus landscape, participate and check in to all K Week signature programs, and share how students can get involved.

“I can’t wait to feel the energy of the incoming freshman and the excitement of new beginnings here being a Wildcat,” said Takyra Taylor, 2025 K Board leader. “K Week is the official Wildcat welcome. Students become part of the Big Blue Nation. It’s a tradition like no other. This week of events is their arena to get their name out and build connections with people from all over.” 

There are more than 120 events students can pick and choose based on their interests and needs. A schedule of events can be found at kweek.uky.edu/schedule and on the UK Guides mobile app.

Some of the key events students can attend include:

• Wildcat Welcome Festival: 8-10 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 20, at Alumni Commons (along Rose Street)
  The UK Alumni Association invites all UK students to enjoy live music, free food, photos and games at Alumni Commons. Come celebrate the new school year, pick up a 2025 K Week t-shirt and have some fun. Hosted by UK Alumni Association and the Office of Student Organizations and Activities.
  Sensory/accessibility info: This event will include large groups and loud noises like music and cheers.
   
• College Meetings: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 21, at various locations
  All new students should attend their designated college meetings. 
  Sensory/accessibility info: Depending on the college, this event may include large groups.
   
• Campus Ruckus: 7-11 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 21, at Alumni Commons (along Rose Street)
  Join the Student Activities Board’s annual back‑to‑school bash featuring up to 180 student organizations, with carnival‑style games to help you get involved. Free snacks, t‑shirts, inflatables and a drone show in the evening. Hosted by the Student Activities Board.
  Sensory/accessibility info: This event will include extra-large groups and loud noises like music and cheers.
   
• Pick Your Path: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday,  Aug. 22, at various locations
  Pick Your Path is students’ chance to explore UK’s campus resources. Attend as many learning sessions as you’d like, meet new people, get free items and discover what UK has to offer. Check the UK Guides mobile app for path details.
  Sensory/accessibility info: Depending on the session, this may include large groups and loud noises.
   
• Big Blue U: 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 22, at Kroger Field
  Join Big Blue Nation for one of K Week’s most iconic traditions! Learn UK cheers and songs, hear from President Eli Capilouto and coaches, and get a class photo taken on the football field. Wear your K Week shirt and comfortable shoes.
  Sensory/accessibility info: Extra-large groups, loud noises like music and cheers; closed captioning will be available inside Kroger Field.
   
• Student Organization Welcome Events: 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, at various locations
  Explore UK’s registered student organizations during welcome events. Attend as many as you’d like to find ways to get involved. Details available in the UK Guides app.
  Sensory/accessibility info: Depending on the event, may include large groups and loud noises.
   
• Cat‑A‑Palooza: 7-10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, at Gatton Student Center
  Grab free food, enjoy live music and a hypnotist performance, unwind in the Chill Zone, try crafts and meet those behind Gatton Student Center’s offices and resources. Hosted by the Student Activities Board, Office of Student Organizations and Activities, and Gatton Student Center.
  Sensory/accessibility info: Extra-large groups, loud noises; a Chill Zone will be available for decompression.
   
• Student Organization Welcome Events: 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, at various locations
  Continue to explore UK’s registered student organizations during welcome events. Attend as many as you’d like to find ways to get involved. Details available via the UK Guides app.
  Sensory/accessibility info: Depending on the event, may include large groups and loud noises.
   
• K Week Chill and Grill: 7-10 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, at Woodland Glen Courtyard
  Celebrate and unwind before classes begin. Enjoy dinner, yard games and a movie in the courtyard with new friends.
  Sensory/accessibility info: May include large groups.

For more information, visit kweek.uky.edu/schedule.