The College of Charleston welcomes families of current students for Family Weekend 2009 from October 2-4. Hundreds of parents, siblings, aunts, uncles and friends will check out campus life including an oyster roast, live music, tours and a chance to meet President P. George Benson.

Family Weekend kicks off with a presentation by author Tim O’Brien in the Carolina First Arena at 5:00 p.m. on October 2. O’Brien wrote The Things They Carried, The College Reads selection. He’ll talk about war, truth in fiction and writing. There will also be a Welcome Reception, Jazz at Night and an Oyster Roast on Friday.

On Saturday, families will be able to tour several buildings including the President’s House, there will be a book signing as well as a presentation on Gullah/Geechee culture. At 11:00 a.m. President Benson and Student Government Association President John Capelle will answer questions in Alumni Hall in Randolph Hall. Families can also take a harbor cruise, a cooking class and a ghost tour.

More information on Family Weekend 2009