By Walter Ryce

CSU Monterey Bay’s RAFT Weekend is our annual homecoming for the campus community, as well as families, friends and community members in order to create memories and bonds through fun events in the middle of the fall semester.

RAFT stands for “Reunion And Family Traditions” and refers to the links that sea otters form to stay together on the ocean.

This year, RAFT Weekend includes a carnival, guided bike rides, a 5k, a drag show, a volleyball game, car show, food, music and more. It runs Friday, Oct. 13 to Sunday, Oct. 15.

One of the first events are mountain bike rides of varying skill levels, led by the Recreation department, through the woodsy trails of Fort Ord National Monument. It takes place 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. this Friday. Bike rentals and helmets are free.

Later that same evening, starting at 5 p.m., is the popular Werk Witch Drag Show that shines a spotlight on drag queens, kings, and non-binary performers at the Otter Student Union Ballroom.

On Saturday, in addition to Monte’s 5k run/walk/roll across campus (9 a.m.) and the MB Madness carnival filled with live music, food, vendors and games (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.), all Otters and friends and family are invited, with free admission, to support the Women’s Volleyball Team as they take on Cal State East Bay 5 p.m. at the Otter Sports Center.

Although most events are intended for students, alumni, employees and their families, there are events that are open to everyone on Saturday and Sunday. They include:

• Monte’s 5k:  A fun walk, run or roll with CSUMB mascot Monte Rey across the campus in support of student scholarships. 9 a.m. Saturday, starting at Otter Student Union.
• MB Madness:  A festival of live music, performance, food, alumni-owned businesses, carnival games and field competitions. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday on the grassy main quad of campus.
• Women’s Volleyball Game: Show your Otter pride by supporting the women’s team as they take on Cal State East Bay. 5 p.m. Saturday at Otter Sports Center. 
• Brunch with the President:  An invitation to join President Vanya Quiñones and others in fellowship over free food and drinks. 10 a.m. Sunday at the Otter Student Union’s Main Quad Plaza.

See the full schedule and register at the RAFT Weekend webpage.