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U of G gearing up for College Royal this weekend

Annual event attracts 20,000 to campus for variety of events
20160314 COLLEGE ROYAL POSTER js

If your kids are bouncing off the walls by the end of March Break, let them bounce off the walls at the University of Guelph instead.

Students on campus are gearing up for College Royal this weekend, a 90-year plus tradition in the city that sees some 20,000 visitors each year.

This year College Royal will feature a new colouring contest and a carnival atmosphere in Peter Clark Hall with bouncy castles for little kids to let off steam. The rest of the tried and true events, like Old MacDonald’s Farm, the pancake flip, and the teddy bear surgery, will be there too.

“What better time to see the University of Guelph than during College Royal,” Marnie McKechnie, vice president of public relations for the student-run event, said in an interview.

“We open our doors to people of every background. We have so much pride at U of G and we want to share it. It really feels like home.”

For students and faculty, College Royal is a week-long celebration of life on campus featuring popular events like the kick-off pub, Super Thursday, a fashion show and the College Royal Ball.

For the general public it’s an opportunity to check out the campus on March 19 and 20, learn about the clubs and causes students can get involved in, and engage in the research -- all in a free, fun, approachable and understandable way.

“There are many kids who have never touched a cow or seen a pig up close. Our livestock shows are very popular,” McKechnie said. “The dog and cat shows are too. These are also opportunities for the students to participate and show what they know. Every club is putting on a display of some sort.”

Things get started on Saturday and Sunday with the pancake flip contest. Be a taste-tester and help choose the winner. Later you can learn how to make butter and ice cream, watch a chemistry magic show, take in the square dance competition and the figure skating show.

“I remember going to College Royal when I was in Grade 9 and holding a brain in the human anatomy lab. Where else can you do that?” McKechnie asked.

Be sure to pick up a free wristband when you arrive. Not only is it a nice memento of the weekend but a way for organizers to get a more accurate read on attendance.

There will be music, contests, feats of strength and dexterity, food, animals and lots of fun.

Full details and schedules can be found at http://www.collegeroyalsociety.com


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