Hornet Days
Kick off your Lynchburg journey and connect with your Hornet community.
Discover Your New Home
Hornet Days is your official start at the University of Lynchburg! This signature event helps first-year, transfer, commuter, and international students feel right at home from day one.
Build Your Community
Get to know your classmates and campus during a series of fun, interactive events. Meet new friends, connect with student leaders, and explore all the resources Lynchburg has to offer you.
Get Ready for Success
Held right before classes start in August, Hornet Days gives you tools and support to prepare for the semester ahead. You’ll build on your SOAR experience and be ready for a strong start!
Featured Events
Connect with your new Lynchburg family at these popular events. Check out our FAQ and resource links below or download the full Hornet Days Schedule.
First Sunset
Saturday, Aug. 16, 7-9 p.m.
Starting at Friendship Circle, dash through clue-filled checkpoints to the Victory Bell, then enjoy your first sunset as a Hornet — all while bonding with new classmates and snapping memories.
Bingo & Banana Splits
Sunday, Aug. 17, 7-9 p.m.
Head to Burton Dining Hall for rounds of bingo while you build your own sky-high banana split at the sundae bar.
DELLventure and Kayaking
Monday, Aug. 18
Explore our Dell on a guided “DELLventure," then hit the water for a relaxed, beginner-friendly kayaking session — gear and instruction included.
Dec Your Room
Monday, Aug. 18, 7-9 p.m.
Drop by the Wellnest (Hundley Hall, 1st floor) to create custom décor and give your room a personal touch.
Transfer Student Mixer
Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2-3 p.m.
Meet and mingle with fellow transfer students over casual snacks and conversation in the West Room, Drysdale Center (3rd floor).
Club & Organization Fair
Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2-5 p.m.
Browse tables, meet student leaders, and sign up for the activities that spark your interest — all on the 3rd floor of Drysdale Student Center.
Candlelight Ceremony
Tuesday, Aug. 19, 8-8:45 p.m.
Gather in Snidow Chapel for the required Candlelight Ceremony, where you’ll reflect, set goals, and place your aspirations into the Class Time Capsule.
Convocation
Wednesday, Aug. 20, 9-10 a.m.
Convocation on the Dell (Hopwood Hall patio) launches your Lynchburg journey with faculty and staff in full regalia, a keynote, the Honor Pledge, and the sealing of your class time capsule.
Department Mixers
Wednesday, Aug. 20, 1-5 p.m.
First-year undergraduate and transfer students will meet with faculty and administrators from their academic unit. Watch your email for information from your area.
First Day of Classes
Thursday, Aug. 21
It’s the first day of classes: locate your classrooms, meet your professors, and go over the syllabus and course expectations that will guide the semester.
Hill City Slide
Saturday, Aug. 23, 2-4 p.m.
Grab your ticket and catch the van at the circle (beside Schewel Hall) for Hill City Slide — a 700-foot downtown water chute where you’ll zip, splash, and mingle with locals; tubes are provided, so wear clothes you’re ready to soak.
FAQs
Are any events mandatory during Hornet Days?
All Hornet Days events are considered mandatory as part of the full orientation experience.
Are the dining halls open when I move in?
Yes, the Burton Dining Hall will be open for the semester and meal plans will be active for students who have a meal plan. Families and guests are also welcome to dine in the dining halls during and after residence hall move-in.
Do I need my student ID during Hornet Days?
Yes, you should carry your student ID during Hornet Days to use during meal times in the dining hall.
What transportation options are available during Hornet Days?
The university does not provide transportation during Hornet Days. If you don’t have a personal vehicle, you can check out the Greater Lynchburg Transit Company (GLTC) which has multiple routes serving campus and the Lynchburg area. Bus passes can be purchased from the Solutions Center, which is conveniently located in Drysdale Student Center, 2nd floor. Additionally, local transportation options (rideshares and taxi services) are available if you need to travel around Lynchburg independently.
Where can I find a map of campus?
You can view the campus map here, and explore the University of Lynchburg through this interactive virtual tour!
Resources for New Students
Welcome to the University of Lynchburg! Below are some links to help you get settled in.
Buy passes at the Solutions Center!
Transportation
Stay Connected
Follow our social accounts for the latest info. We’ll keep you up-to-date through Hornet Days and beyond.
Questions? Email:
