Celebrating 100 Years of the Kansas Memorial Unions

Friday, February 27, 2026, 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM

*insert link to rock chalk central or calendar*

Did you know the first floor of the KU Memorial Union once had its own bowling alley? As part of our 100th anniversary celebration, we’re bringing that history back to life with a semi-restoration of the original bowling alley space.

Join us on the first floor of the Union for a striking game of bowling, explore pieces from the original alley on display, and enjoy complimentary treats as we strike up the past and roll new traditions into the future.

Monday, March 23, 2026, 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Eighty years ago, Danforth Chapel hosted its very first wedding. Since then, nearly 5,000 couples have said ‘I do’ within its walls. Join us as we celebrate this remarkable history with a special anniversary event.

At Danforth Chapel, we invite you to come enjoy wedding cake samples, create your own floral bouquet, and explore the chapel’s legacy through a history gallery. Celebrate love, tradition, and eight decades of memories in this iconic campus space.

Saturday, April 25, 2026, 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM

From the Satellite Student Union to the Burge Union, this building holds a rich history worth celebrating. After recent renovations, it’s time to honor its legacy in a fresh way.

The Burge Union will be transformed into a casino where players can win prizes, including Coffee House gift cards and even an iPad! A history exhibit will also give attendees the chance to learn more about the Burge Union’s legacy.

Thursday, April 30, 2026, 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM

This year, we’re celebrating a major milestone: The Kansas Memorial Union’s 100th birthday! A century of student life, community, and tradition deserves a celebration, with a full day of events, exhibits, and activities!

Celebrate 100 years of the Memorial Union! Explore a timeline gallery, discover the story of the famous Ballroom fire, and join a scavenger hunt throughout the building. Don’t miss this chance to experience the Union like never before!

Friday, October 6, 2026, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Baby Jay, the beloved mascot of the University of Kansas Jayhawks, will celebrate 55 years in 2026. First introduced on October 9, 1971, Baby Jay hatched during the KU Homecoming football game and has been a campus favorite ever since.

Join us outside the KU Memorial Union as we celebrate Baby Jay’s birthday in true Jayhawk spirit! Stop by to wish Baby Jay a happy birthday, enjoy a sweet birthday donut, and pick up some spirited KU gear to mark the occasion.

Tuesday, November 17, 2026, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

The campus bookstore is turning 73 this year! First opened on November 17, 1952, it has been a beloved spot for students, faculty, and visitors ever since.

Join us as we celebrate this milestone with a special event featuring merchandise from the ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. Stop by to browse, shop, and take a trip down memory lane as we honor decades of bookstore history!

Saturday, June 13, 2026, 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Varying from the Union's 100th Birthday Party, this summertime celebration offers a fresh experience where attendees can explore the Union's beautifully reimagined spaces.

The Union 100th Celebration will feature an invite-only luncheon, a cake-cutting ceremony on Ascher Plaza open for all to enjoy, and a progressive dinner that invites guests to explore the Union's updates from top to bottom.

Throughout the festivities, guests can also bid on exclusive renderings of the Union.