Harper College

What's In Store! Everything you need to know.

What is Gradfest?
Gradfest is a special event for Harper College alumni from the classes of 2020, 2021, and 2022 who are invited to an in-person celebration of your time at Harper. It is a festival with picnic lunch, music and activities. We hope to provide a meaningful and joyful in-person connection that acknowledges and celebrates you!

What time is the event?
12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Gradfest starts at noon but will be an “open house” style event. You may come anytime between Noon – 3 p.m. Remarks from College leadership at 12:30 p.m.

Where is it located? UPDATED LOCATION! Due to the threat of rain/weather, Gradfest will be moved to Building M.
Gradfest will take place at the Foglia Health and Recreation Facility - Building M. Please check in at the registration tent which will be located on the west end of the Pavilion area. See the campus map. You will need to check in at the registration tent to receive your food voucher and wristband which will give you access to all activities.
Inclement weather: If there is inclement weather, the event, including lunch and all festivities, will be moved to the Foglia Foundation Health and Recreation Facility (Building M).

How much does it cost to attend?
Gradfest is FREE, but advance registration is required by May 25. 

Where do I check-in when I arrive?
Please check-in at the registration tables which will be inside the main entrance of the Foglia Health and Recreation Facility. Look for the "Registration" signs and Harper volunteers will help show you where to go. At registration, you will provide your name and guests names. You will receive wristbands and lunch tickets.

What activities are planned?
We’ll have music including the band 7th heaven as the featured act. Campus leaders will welcome guests at 12:30 p.m. There will be lawn games, henna tattoo artist, photo opportunities around the event area, euro bungee, caricature artist, face painter, a reflection banner for alumni to sign, Harper Studio V Boutique pop up shop, Harper bookstore, Alumni tent with giveaways, and more!

What is on the menu?
Gradfest will offer a free picnic lunch for the alum and guests (up to 3 people). The menu will consist of choice of hotdog, hamburger or veggie burger plus chips, a cookie and a beverage.

Where can I park?
Optimal parking lots are campus lots 1 & 2. For guests who may need assistance getting from the parking lot to the event, golf carts will be available for transport from parking to event entrance. Click here to view a campus map.

Who can I bring?
Each alum can bring up to 3 guests. Come by yourself or bring a friend or family! Guests must be pre-registered along with the alumni registration. 

I need ADA assistance, who can I contact?
For guests who may need assistance getting from the parking lot to the event, golf carts will be available for transport from Lot 1& 2 to the Foglia Health and Recreation Facility (Building M) where Gradfest will take place.
Individuals with disabilities who would like to request an accommodation or who have questions about physical access may email ads@harpercollege.edu or call 847.925.6266 at least two weeks in advance of the event date.

Where can I sit? What should I bring?
There will be tables on the pavilion lawn for enjoying your picnic lunch but feel free to bring a picnic blanket as well as seating will be limited. Refreshments (soda, water) will be offered when you get your picnic lunch but feel free to bring your personal water bottle. 

Where are the restrooms?
The restrooms are located inside Building D at the south side of the pavilion lawn.

For questions or additional information, please contact Harper College Alumni Relations at 847.925.6701 or alumni@harpercollege.edu.

Last Updated: 12/14/23