Maryland Day at University of Maryland

University of Maryland celebrates its 13th anniversary Maryland Day this weekend.

The event will take place April 30 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.  It is a free open house that allows everyone to "have fun, learn and explore," according to a university press release.

"I'm very excited about attending my first Maryland Day here at the University of Maryland," said University President Wallace Loh. "One of the things that attracted me to UMD is the breadth of fascinating programs here. I understand that there will be more than 400 events across campus this year, all of them offering learning and fun for all ages. I am especially proud that we have 8,000 faculty, staff and student volunteers who come out to make it a wonderful day for all of our visitors. Maryland Day has become a model for other schools and one of the premier annual events in the State."

Visitors to the 1,250-acre campus will be able to "Explore Our World" with tours, exhibits and demonstrations. The university is sectioned off into six areas of exploration, learning and fun: Science and Tech Way, Ag Day Avenue, Arts Alley, Sports and Rec Row, Biz and Society Hill, Terp Town Center.

Hornbake Plaza - part of Terp Town Center - is geared toward health and wellness. Hostess and alumna Joy Bauer, who is "The Today Show's" nutrition and health expert, will be on hand. Dining Services will be cooking some of her recipes, and samples are free. She'll also have health talks and book signings.

Two popular children's book authors will also take part in Maryland Day on the Big Top stage. Alumnus Jeff Kinney, author of the popular series "Diary of a Wimpy Kid," will speak and then sign books. He'll be followed by Laura Duksta, who will discuss her school program "Self-Esteem through Love: Empowering Our Children to Shine!"

Maryland sports fans can visit the Comcast Center for autographs with their favorite Terp men and women's basketball players. The men's football team, including new coach Randy Edsall, will sign autographs at Byrd Stadium before the annual Red and White Football Scrimmage at 3:30 p.m.

Visitors can also explore majors and college financing, talk to the deans, be part of an archeological dig, get blown away in a wind tunnel and more.

Maryland Day will take place rain or shine. Admission and parking are free, and there will be free shuttle buses to and from the College Park Metro and on campus. Visitors are encouraged to take Metro.

For more information, visit the Maryland Day website at  www.marylandday.umd.edu/.