1. The parade: It’s the ultimate family-friendly VEISHEA tradition, dating back to the birth of VEISHEA in 1922. Featuring two traditional floats, which take months to build and Johhny Orr as grand marshall, the 2011 VEISHEA parade won’t disappoint.

2. Taste of VEISHEA: Not only is the food indulgent and cheap — think a sampling of the Iowa State Fair a few months early — the Memorial Union drive location offers picturesque lounging near Lake Laverne.

3. Stars Over VEISHEA presents “Kiss me Kate”: The play about an egotistical director is being shown by Stars Over VEISHEA for the third time since 1964. Brad Dell, assistant professor of theater, directs the student play.

4. Cherry pies: This tradition predates VEISHEA itself, and the proceeds go to a good cause — scholarships for the department of hotel, institution and restaurant management. Not to mention, the petite pies are quite tasty.

5. VEISHEA Village and Ames Neighborhood: Celebrate the original purpose of VEISHEA — to honor the colleges, departments and clubs of Iowa State, as well as the Ames community. This year there will be about 75 unique exhibits around Central Campus.

6. Pancake feed: Whether your carb craving comes late at night or early in the morning, the pancake feeds are perennial favorites. Just don’t be surprised if your flapjacks are served by flinging through the air.

7. Football spring game: Why wait til fall to return to Jack Trice?

8. Tournaments: Though it may be too late to register, the tournaments going on throughout the weekend can still be fun to watch. Canoe races on Lake Laverne should be particularly entertaining.

9. International Food Fair: With a sampling of foods from different cultures, the International Food Fair is a unique addition to the VEISHEA tradition.

10. Carnival: If rides are your thing, you’re probably already there. If rides aren’t your thing, there’s still plenty going on at the Molecular Biology building throughout the weekend; it’s definitely worth the trek.