Three New Ways to Experience Homecoming this Year
Chewonki’s beloved Homecoming weekend is back this August, and we’re excited to share three updates that we hope will make the event even more memorable:
#1. Stay in a Cabin
For the first time, we’re offering Homecoming cabin stays!
How does it work?
If you’ve ever been part of a Chewonki program, this will feel familiar. After you register, we’ll collect your preferences and do our best to place you in a cabin that feels like a good fit. Families will stay together, and we’re happy to honor requests to be with specific friends.
Each cabin sleeps up to eight people. Depending on registration, some groups may have a cabin to themselves (especially if you’re close to filling it). Smaller groups, pairs, and individuals may be placed together. Our goal is that everyone feels comfortable with their placement.
What should you bring?
Cabins are rustic. Plan to bring your own sleeping bag and pillow. Lighting and outlets are available but limited. Bathhouses with showers and toilets are located nearby.
What does it cost?
Cabin registration is $200 for adults and $155 for kids and teens. Small children sleeping in a parent’s bed or portable crib are free. Registration includes:
- A cabin bed for Friday and Saturday nights
- Four family-style meals in the Wallace Dining Hall: Saturday breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus Sunday breakfast (no meals on Friday)
- Full access to campus all weekend
- Activities including hiking, swimming, canoeing, crafts, a campfire, and more
#2 Camp on a Point or Campus Lawn
We’re expanding camping options this year, with two ways to stay overnight outdoors.
Camp on the points
These are established campsites out on the peninsula overlooking the ocean. They are beautiful, quiet, and tucked away.
Key details:
- Campsites are a short walk or hike away, so packing lightly is important
- These are group sites; you may be camping alongside other guests.
- Many sites include tent platforms
- Composting toilet facilities are located near each campsite
- Campfires are allowed in established fire circles
This option is best for those comfortable carrying their gear and navigating uneven terrain. It may not be ideal for families with very young children or for those with mobility concerns.
Camp on campus lawns
For a simpler setup, we’re also opening select lawns near the cabin circles.
Key details:
- Our lawns are easy to access. No long walk required.
- Quicker access to bathhouses with showers and toilets
- No campfires permitted in these areas
What does it cost?
Whether you camp on the peninsula or campus lawn, camping registration is $125 for adults and $75 for kids and teens. Kids 2 and under are free. The registration fees include:
- Access to a campsite
- Four family-style meals in the Wallace Dining Hall, including Saturday breakfast, lunch and dinner, and Sunday breakfast. (Note that no meals will be served on Friday)
- Full access to campus all weekend, for strolls, bird watching and sheep petting
- Hiking, swimming, canoeing, crafts, a campfire, and more.
#3. A More Hands-on Weekend
Another thing you might notice about Homecoming this year is that guests will have a little more responsibility – in a good way!
We’re not setting up a large event tent with servers, and there’s no dish crew behind the scenes.
Instead, we’re leaning into the rhythm of a typical Chewonki program. That means arriving on time for meals, helping set tables, and scraping your own plate when you’re done.
In short: this year, you’re the dish crew. Just like when programs are in session.
Meals will be served in the dining hall and under the tent in the quad, creating a more communal and participatory experience.
What’s Staying the Same
Plenty.
There will still be a relaxed, welcoming schedule filled with time to connect and explore. Swimming, canoeing, a craft or two, nature walks, and a campfire at the end of the day.
And, of course, that unmistakable feeling of Chewonki camaraderie.
Prefer not to stay overnight?
Weekend passes (no lodging):
$65 for adults / $40 for kids and teens
Includes Saturday lunch and dinner, plus all weekend activities
Drop-in passes:
$30 for adults / $20 for kids and teens
Includes one meal (Saturday lunch or dinner) and access to activities during that time
Family pass:
$50 flat rate
Includes Saturday lunch for the whole family and access to activities from ~11 am to 3 pm
Whether you stay for the whole weekend or just drop in for a few hours, we hope you’ll join us.
