Written by PR Workshop
If you are looking for a great time with friends or just want a few hours away from homework, events at UNW are the perfect way to spend the night. From thrilling sports games to a reflective evening of worship, UNW events have a little something for everyone.
1. Five16
One of UNW’s most prized events is the Five16 Film Festival. What started nearly twenty years ago as a humble student showcase transformed into a community-wide night of redemptive film. The festival is named after Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Student producers mirror words, portraying stories of faith and redemption. Due to incredible popularity, this April 10 event is sold out! You can view the show live on the festival’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/five16filmfestival
2. Letters of Love
During Valentine’s week, the student organization Tapestry hosted a “Letters of Love” event in the Billy, bringing students together to share hope and compassion with children in hospice care. During lunchtime, students gathered to create heartfelt Valentine’s Day cards, each offering messages of encouragement and kindness. With no limit on the number of letters, the event emphasized that even a simple message brightens a child’s day in difficult circumstances. Following the event, the Tapestry team mailed the letters, ensuring each child felt cared for and supported. This thoughtful and heartwarming Tapestry Event highlighted the meaningful impact of the UNW community.
3. Homecoming: American Football
Everyone loves sports, and UNW does not fall short in that category. Every Northwestern Eagles game brings excitement, but the Homecoming game in particular creates an atmosphere that can’t be matched. People fill every seat, so much so that extra bleachers are brought into the north end zone. Beyond the football game, bouncy houses, games, and food trucks fill the pond lot. So whether you love football and enjoy watching a great game, or you just come for the amazing “boys of fall” atmosphere, the Northwestern Homecoming game is the perfect choice.
4. Nick at Night
The opportunity for students to have fun at Nickelodeon Universe at the Mall of America during the “Nick at Night” event hosted by the student organization Core. With the space reserved exclusively for UNW students this year, the evening offered a memorable break from busy academic schedules and a chance to enjoy time with friends. Students enjoyed unlimited access to rides at a significantly reduced ticket price, less than half the regular cost, making the event both exciting and accessible. “I really enjoyed the night,” said Elizabeth, a current student at UNW, reflecting the joy shared by many participants. Events like Nick at Night highlight the importance of balance in student life, giving students the opportunity to relax and create lasting memories outside the classroom.
5. Oasis
If you’re looking for an event that you can keep going to over and over without having to wait a year, then this is it. Oasis is a worship night usually held in the Robertsen Student Center, an hour of songs led by UNW’s own. Bonus points because it offers SDC at the end and is a great way to find community. The band usually features a keys player, an acoustic guitarist, multiple vocalists, a percussionist, and sometimes a bass or electric guitarist. Oasis is held on the last Tuesday of every month, the final one for Spring 2026 is April 28!
