POTSDAM -- “Welcome Weekend” for SUNY Potsdam’s new students will be Thursday, Aug. 22 to Sunday, Aug. 25.

Approximately 840 freshmen and their families will be buzzing around the village, exploring the area, beginning Thursday after 10 a.m. move in.

SUNY Potsdam students will again be invited to "First Saturday" downtown, co-sponsored by Clarkson University, Saturday, Aug. 31 from noon to 5 p.m.

A variety of "First Saturday" contests and activities will introduce students to the village of Potsdam and local businesses. Student musical groups from both SUNY Potsdam and Clarkson will perform throughout the day on the Market Street main stage.

On campus Thursday activities for freshman will include the “First-Year Funnel,” a tree planting, and new student convocation.

Friday events will include an extended orientation for the new students, followed by fireworks at 8 p.m. The evening will wrap up with an outdoor showing of “Iron Man 3."

Saturday will feature a giant "slip 'n slide," games, canoeing, and kayaking in Lehman Park.

A free new student concert will be held Saturday at 8 p.m. in Hosmer Hall.

Sunday will wrap up the weekend with the Welcome Weekend Carnival from 1 to 5 p.m. in the Maxcy Hall Field House. A variety of carnival games and activities will be offered, including an obstacle course, photo booth, and a "make your own stuffed animal" station.

For more information visit www.potsdam.edu.