1. Meet the filmmaker.

The Robert H. Kirschner, MD, Memorial Human Rights Lecture features cofounder and creative director of Chicago’s own Kartemquin Films Gordon Quinn, AB’65, speaking about documentary and democracy. (Get a refresher on the history of Kartemquin in “Documentary Vision.”) Thursday, June 2, 6:00–7:30 p.m. in Mandel Hall. 

2. Kick back.

In what’s become a modern-day Alumni Weekend tradition, part of the quad is magically transformed into the Baderbräu Beer Garden, offering local brews, beverages, and snacks. A perfect respite between classes, er, UnCommon Core sessions. Friday, June 3, 1–4 p.m., and Saturday, June 4, 2–5 p.m., on the main quadrangle.

3. Walk about.

From libraries to hard hats to public art, the weekend has a tour for everyone. Get up close and personal with the not-quite-completed Campus North Residential Commons or the newly finished William Eckhardt Research Center. Or stop and smell the roses on the Campus Gardens Tour with UChicago’s landscape architect Richard Bumstead.

4. Hear something new.

The University Symphony Orchestra’s special concert in honor of conductor Barbara Schubert’s 40th year with the orchestra features the world premiere of a commissioned work by Ricardo Lorenz, PhD’99. There are two chances to attend: Friday night at 8 p.m. and Saturday afternoon at 4 p.m.

5. Laugh a lot.

Generations of Off-Off Campus alumni take the stage Saturday evening, making it up as they go. Saturday, June 4, 7–9 p.m. in the Cloister Club, Ida Noyes Hall.