Lancer First Look

Get your first look at Grace College

A Lancer First Look enables you to experience Grace College with other students in a group setting. You will tour the campus, meet current Grace College students and faculty, and eat lunch in our dining commons.

Register Here

Lancer First Looks

Friday, July 18, 2025

Friday, July 25, 2025

Monday, September 1, 2025 (Labor Day)

Friday, October 17, 2025 (No Chapel – Grace Fall Break)

Lancer First Look Schedule

10:00	a.m.	Registration begins at the Welcome Center
		Begin your day with a warm welcome! Our team will help you get settled and ready for a day of discovery.
10:30	a.m.	Welcome & Student Life Panel: Discovering Community at Grace
		Hear from students about how Grace’s Christ-centered community, academics, and lakeside setting shape their college experience.
11:30	a.m.	Campus Tour and Lunch
		Enjoy a guided tour of our lakeside campus, envision your life as a Lancer in our stunning residence halls, and hear stories about student life. Enjoy lunch with current students who can answer your questions.

Friday Afternoon Options

1:30 p.m. | Connect with Admissions (optional) & Explore our Lakeside Community

Meet with our Admissions team to discuss your future at Grace. Then, take time to explore our community at your own pace.

Explore our Lakeside Community

Grace Outdoors, located in the Welcome Center, offers bikes, boats, boards, and more at affordable rates!
Stroll the Winona Lake trails, visit the Village’s shops and cafes, or relax by the lake — a perfect way to imagine life at Grace.

Shop at Grace Gear

Be sure to visit our campus store within the Welcome Center to pick out your FREE t-shirt from admissions and find scores of other Grace merch that will help you show off your school spirit and make you feel right at home!

Tour the Winona History Center

Our history center is also located within the Welcome Center and will help you discover the rich Christian history of our community. From Billy Sunday to Billy Graham, our town has made a lasting impact for Christ across generations!

2:00 - 7:00 p.m. | Complimentary Rides on the Grace Boat!

Join us for a 30-minute scenic cruise or a thrilling 60-minute tubing adventure on the picturesque Winona Lake. Rides are weather permitting, and advance registration is required during your visit registration. Please note that other guests will also be aboard. Availability is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

5:30 p.m. | Complimentary Picnic at Winona Lake Limitless Park

Join the Grace team for delicious burgers and brats! This is a wonderful opportunity to relax and connect with fellow visitors in a beautiful lakeside setting. Be sure to register during your visit registration to reserve your spot! We look forward to seeing you there!

8:00 p.m. | Public Reading at Morgan Library (July 18 Only)

Come experience an engaging evening of literature, featuring a special public reading by Grace College’s own Dr. John Poch and acclaimed fiction writer Katy Carl. This event offers a unique opportunity to hear from two talented authors as they share their work in a welcoming, intimate setting. Whether you’re a literary enthusiast or simply curious, this reading promises to be an enriching experience for all.

Upgrade with an Overnight Stay!

Experience our exceptional community by staying overnight at one of our local hotels.

Saturday Options

8:00 - 1:00 p.m. | Explore the Winona Lake Farmers Market

Visit the Winona Lake Farmers Market at the Miller Sunset Pavilion for a vibrant and charming experience! From delicious local produce and artisanal treats to freshly brewed coffee and beautiful plants, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Lunch on Your Own – Explore the Village at Winona!

We recommend these exceptional eateries in the Village.

11:00 - 4:00 p.m. | Complimentary Rides on the Grace Boat!

Join us for a 30-minute scenic cruise or a thrilling 60-minute tubing adventure on the picturesque Winona Lake. Please note that other guests will also be aboard. Rides are weather permitting, and advance registration is required during your visit registration. Availability is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Noon - 1 p.m. | Book Sale and Signing at Morgan Library (July 19 Only)

This casual, come-and-go event will feature a diverse group of authors, including Newbery and Printz award-winner Gary Schmidt, Shemaiah Gonzalez, Katy Carl, James Matthew Wilson, Kat Higgs-Coulthard, George David Clark, John Poch, David Marsh, and Daniel Bowman.

11:30 - 4:00 p.m. | Jazz Festival in Winona Lake (July 26 Only)

Get ready for an unforgettable day of smooth rhythms and electrifying performances at the Winona Lake Jazz Festival! Join us in Rodeheaver Auditorium for a spectacular lineup of FREE live jazz, showcasing a wide array of styles—from big band extravaganzas to intimate small ensembles. With incredible musicians bringing their best to the stage, it’s an event you won’t want to miss.