Although the more than 20-year-old tradition of Palousafest brings in a new class of students each year, Assistant Director of Student Involvement Katie Dahlinger said the heart of the event always stays the same: it’s a street fair full of involvement opportunities.
This is what Student Involvement Coordinator Kaela Watson kept in mind while planning this Saturday’s event.
“It’s a really great opportunity to learn and get involved — just like always,” Watson said.
Palousafest is a collaboration of University of Idaho organizations and community partners, Watson said. The estimated 3,000 to 5,000 attendees will find local businesses, nonprofits and UI clubs lining the stretch of Sixth Street between McConnell Hall and the Living and Learning Communities (LLCs).
Watson said about 200 organizations are planned to set up shop at Palousafest. Most will hand out information and “freebies.”
“The thing that I think is really exciting about this event is that this campus has so many opportunities for students,” Watson said. “ Just looking at all the different clubs and academic opportunities we have, it’s amazing what you can do here.”
In addition to the abundance of informational pamphlets and free pens students and community members can load their bags with, Watson said this year’s Palousafest will have pizza provided by Sodexo, games, rides and entertainment directly after the street fair.
Attendees can find free pizza, as long as it lasts, near the front of the street fair, Watson said. An obstacle course will be stationed by the McConnell Hall building and a four-person carnival ride near the LLCs. Watson said attendees must sign a short waiver before using the obstacle course and carnival ride.
After the street fair, which runs from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Watson said the Screen on the Green film showing will take place on the Tower Lawn. “Avengers: Infinity War” will begin at 8:45 p.m.
In years past, Palousafest has concluded the evening with a concert by local bands and artists. This year, Watson said they felt it would be best to end with something a bit more lowkey.
Students learn about student lead organizations at Paolusafest 2017.
“Typically what we’ve noticed, is concerts are more high energy. A movie is a more relaxing end to a busy day,” Watson said.
Saturday will be a busy day for many new UI students, as they take part in an array of events geared toward campus involvement and community outreach. Dahlinger said it might be a busy day for students, but it’s also a day that breaks the ice.
“After the Sound of Idaho Marching Band kicks us off, and nervous attendees figure out folks at the tables aren’t that intimidating, there is an energy of curiosity and exuberance among our attendees of all the things our institution and community have to offer,” Dahlinger said.
But, Watson said for students who have already been through a busy orientation weekend, Palousafest is still an event worth attending.
“We get the chance to show old and new students what this campus has to offer,” Watson said.
Dahlinger said many of the tables are hosted by sophomore students and older, helping new students find what might work best for them.
“Jump-in, challenge yourself to make new connections and reflect a bit on how you’d like to grow in your first year of college,” Dahlinger said.
Hailey Stewart can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter at @Hailey_ann97