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Return to the Redwoods

We can’t wait to see you in 2025!

Come back to where it all began

Return to the Redwoods is your chance to reconnect with friends, family, and fellow alumni while exploring the beauty of campus. Enjoy a variety of activities for all ages, including a lively kick-off party, Stars & S’mores, guided hikes, hands-on workshops, and plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation.

You definitely don’t want to miss out!

Weekend passes

Weekend Passes and optional activity registration will open in June!

Soon registration will be open for housing, and you can start planning your Return to Santa Cruz.

In June you’ll be able to purchase your Weekend Pass and sign up for optional activities. You’ll be able to register for your entire group at once or have each person grab their pass individually.

All participants for Return to the Redwoods must purchase a weekend pass, even if they are not staying on campus.

Pricing:

ADULT: $85  |  CHILD (ages 3-17) $60

Each Weekend Pass includes:

  • Campus parking for the entire weekend
  • Breakfast on Saturday and Sunday at Rachel Carson Dining Hall
  • Gym access throughout the weekend
  • Activities & events spanning all three days
    • Details about events and optional activities will be announced in June!
  • New this year:
    • Return to the Redwoods loop bus to help you get around campus 
    • Expanded family programming: We’re offering more activities and events designed specifically for families with children, so everyone can join in the fun!

Schedule

Day 1 – Friday, August 15

  • Settle in and celebrate your return to campus!
  • Dinner and kick-off celebration in the Porter Quad
  • Stars ‘n’ S’mores on the East Field

Day 2 – Saturday, August 16

  • Breakfast in the Rachel Carson College Dining Hall
  • Morning and afternoon activities (guided hikes, lectures, workshops, etc.)
    • To be announced in June!
  • Street Fair highlighting local makers

Day 3 – Sunday, August 17

  • Wake up slowly and soak in the morning on campus before saying farewell and heading home.
  • Breakfast in the Rachel Carson College Dining Hall
  • Morning activities to be announced!

FAQs

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Who is Return to the Redwoods for?

All UC Santa Cruz alumni and their families, friends, and more are encouraged to join in the fun. Whether you just graduated or are celebrating a milestone reunion (or maybe somewhere in between), we hope you’ll spend the weekend with us up on our City on a Hill!

Do I have to stay on campus to participate?

While so much of the fun happening this weekend will be on campus, you do not have to stay there if dorms aren’t your thing. Just don’t forget to purchase your Weekend Pass!

Is this event family-friendly?

Yes, Return to the Redwoods is a family-friendly event!

This year, we’ve added more activities specifically geared toward families with children, and we offer Family Zone apartment housing for those with kids under 18. These apartments are prioritized for families, providing shared living spaces in a quieter area close to the Rachel Carson Dining Hall. Please note that, for safety reasons, children under 18 cannot stay in dorm-style housing — but all ages are welcome in the apartments. We look forward to welcoming your whole family for a weekend of fun and connection!

Is parking included?

Yes! Your Weekend Pass includes campus parking for the entire event. Upon arrival, you’ll receive a parking permit to display in your vehicle.

Can I come for just one day?

We encourage guests to join us for the full weekend experience, but we understand not everyone can stay the whole time. While housing is priced per night, the Weekend Pass is required for all attendees, even if you only plan to join us for a day.

What dining options are available?

The Weekend Pass includes breakfast on Saturday and Sunday at Rachel Carson College Dining Hall. For other meals, you can explore nearby dining options on and off campus.

When we get closer to the event, we’ll share the locations and hours of food options on campus!

Can I use the gym and pool on campus?

Gym and pool access are included in your Weekend Pass! If you’d like to visit the gym or use the pool (located near the East Field House), please stop by Slug Central to complete the waiver and get your access sticker. Once you have your access sticker, you are free to head over and use the facilities (including the pool).

Can I bring any non-alumni friends? What about pets?

Of course! While this event is designed for and inspired by Slugs, you are encouraged to bring friends and family along to join the fun!

Domestic animals that are not service animals as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) are prohibited on all UC Santa Cruz property. You can learn more about rules and regulations regarding animals on campus here.

Can I stay in my old dorm room?

Unfortunately, we can’t guarantee placement in your old dorm room, and it’s unlikely we’ll be able to accommodate this request. Housing assignments are made on a first-come, first-served basis, based on when reservations are completed.

What should I pack?

Take a look at our suggested packing list

Can I cook if I’m in an apartment?

Apartments include a fridge, stove, oven, and kitchen space, but they DO NOT include dishes, cookware, utensils, or a microwave.

New Leaf and Safeway are nearby grocery stores where you can stock up on groceries and other essentials. 

Who should I contact to secure any accessibility accommodations?

If you have any accessibility requirements/requests/questions, you can contact reunions@ucsc.edu

My friend let me know this event was happening. Why didn’t I get the email?!

We don’t always have everyone’s correct contact information! Be sure to update your info here, so that you can always be updated on campus news and alumni events!

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellation details for campus housing:

  • Cancellations with at least two weeks’ notice will receive a refund minus a 6% fee
  • Cancellations less than two weeks will be charged a $50 and a 6% fee
  • Cancellations without at least 72-hour notice will be charged one night’s accommodation and 6% fee

Cancellation details for Weekend Passes and activity registrations:

  • Cancellations with at least two weeks’ notice will receive a refund minus a 6% fee
  • Cancellations less than two weeks will be refunded 50% minus a 6% fee
  • Cancellations without at least 72-hour notice will be charged the full amount.

Any other questions? Feel free to reach out to us at reunions@ucsc.edu

Relive the weekend

Last year’s Return to the Redwoods was a resounding success, vividly captured in the smiles and laughter evident in our gallery of photos and videos now available online. Alumni and friends soaked in the nostalgic campus ambiance, exchanged stories of yesteryear, and enjoyed an array of engaging activities surrounded by UCSC’s iconic natural beauty. As you reminisce on these treasured memories, get ready to create new ones—next year’s event promises to bring even more opportunities to connect and celebrate the enduring spirit of UC Santa Cruz. Stay tuned for updates and start planning your return to the campus that forever holds a place in our hearts.

Return to the Redwoods 2023
Last modified: Mar 17, 2025