Cal Day

Every spring, UC Berkeley opens its doors to newly admitted students and their families for Cal Day—a spirited celebration of academics, community, and campus life. Cal Day Berkeley 2025 is your official welcome into the Golden Bear family, packed with events, tours, performances, and opportunities to picture yourself at one of the top public universities in the world.

Whether you're a future student or a proud family member, this is your day to get a feel for the campus, meet your future community, and fall in love with Berkeley.

What to Expect on Cal Day

Cal Day is a full-day event just for newly admitted students and their families. You’ll be able to:

• Join the Chancellor’s Welcome at California Memorial Stadium (starts at 8 a.m. sharp!)
• Tour your academic department and attend college-specific sessions
• Explore student organizations, research opportunities, and resource zones
• Take a walking campus tour led by Berkeley student ambassadors
• Stop by the Blue Carpet VIP experience for swag, photo ops, and admissions confirmations

Note: Registration for Cal Day is required through the MAP@Berkeley portal.

Make a Weekend Out of It

Where to Stay in Berkeley

Coming in from out of town? These family-friendly hotels near campus make it easy to get to the action:

• Graduate Berkeley – Stylish and just a block from campus, it’s a favorite for visiting families.
• Hotel Shattuck Plaza – Located in downtown Berkeley, just a quick walk or BART ride from Cal.
• DoubleTree by Hilton Berkeley Marina – Enjoy waterfront views and a peaceful stay away from the buzz.
• Aiden by Best Western - Located a mile from the UC Berkeley campus and with stunning rooftop terrace views.
• Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites - Close to campus and delicious gourmet dining options around town.

For a full list of area accommodations, explore Berkeley’s top hotels and resorts here.

Where to Eat Near Campus

From grab-and-go bites to family dinners, Berkeley’s food scene is as diverse as its student body. While you're here for Cal Day Berkeley, check out these local favorites:

• Sliver Pizzeria – A student go-to for fresh, veggie-only pizza right near campus.
• Angeline’s Louisiana Kitchen – Southern comfort food perfect for a celebratory dinner.
• La Note – A cozy French café with amazing brunch and a charming patio.
• Pizzeria da Laura - Customize your toppings and your pizza, from New York, Sicilian, Detroit, and Grandma style.
• Jupiter - Inspired by the oldest bar in Berlin, Jupiter offers delicious food, live music, and local beer.
• Study Hall Rooftop Lounge - Enjoy breathtaking views of the city over delicious Happy Hour specials.
• Henry's - Fresh tavern fare with a Bay Area twist at Graduate Berkeley.

Explore Berkeley While You’re in Town

You’re here for Cal Day—but there’s so much more to Berkeley beyond the campus gates. Make time to:

• Ride the elevator up Sather Tower (The Campanile) for panoramic Bay Area views
• Stroll through UC Botanical Garden or Tilden Park for nature and fresh air
• Walk Telegraph Avenue for vintage shops, bookstores, and street food
• Catch a show at Berkeley Repertory Theatre or enjoy music at The UC Theatre

Want more ideas? Discover more things to do here.

Cal Week: Can’t Make It in Person?

Not to worry—Cal Week follows Cal Day with virtual events, videos, and resource fairs so you can explore Berkeley from wherever you are.

Plan Your Cal Day Berkeley 2025 Visit

Date: Saturday, April 19, 2025
Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Welcome session begins at 8 a.m.)
Who can attend: Admitted students and their registered guests only
Location: UC Berkeley Campus

This is your chance to walk the campus, meet future classmates, chat with faculty, and see what it truly means to be a Golden Bear. As one student said, “There is no other way to replicate what Berkeley has to offer—Cal Day is a must.”

Accessibility

If you require an accommodation for effective communication (ASL interpreting/CART captioning, alternative media formats, etc.) or information about campus mobility access features in order to fully participate in this event, please contact ouareservations@berkeley.edu for more information.

Ready to walk the Blue & Gold carpet? We’ll see you at Cal Day Berkeley 2025!