Last year 30,000 people attended Packapalooza, and this year, organizers want to make the event even bigger.
Packapalooza will take place Saturday, Aug. 24 on Hillsborough Street and, like last year, it will include live music, demonstrations and events.
The event will cap off Wolfpack Welcome Week and start off the academic year.
According to Justine Hollingshead, director of the GLBT Center at N.C. State and one of the event’s organizers, last year’s Packapalooza was so successful that students, faculty and alumni wanted the University to host it again.
“We believe people had a good time (at last year’s event),” Hollingshead said. “There were a lot of activities for all age groups and it was a great way to showcase the University.”
Hollingshead said the upcoming Packapalooza will be similar to last year’s, except with different zones.
The green zone will focus on N.C. State’s commitment to sustainability and recycling, and the international zone will share the culture of students and faculty from around the world.
The arts, sports and Wolfpack zones are also planned, and the headlining music performer will be announced later this summer.
“I think the focus now is showcasing all the amazing things that happen at N.C. State,” Hollingshead said. “We want to show world-class students doing everything from winning the ACC championship to having academic accolades and things within the classroom to showcasing students groups performing.”
Hollingshead summed up Packapalooza by describing it as a dynamic event where everyone can find something he or she is interested in.
“Throughout the day there will be a lot of engaging things,” Hollingshead said. “If you like NASCAR or want to learn about robots or sustainable vehicles, or you want to listen to a good band there will be something for you. “Whether you come for a couple hours or all day there should be something for everyone.”