Packapalooza Packs a Punch

For homecoming parades, game-day victories and graduation photos at the Belltower, Hillsborough Street is the place where NC State celebrates. So what better place to throw the biggest party of the year in honor of the university’s 125th anniversary? Come over to Hillsborough Street from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 18, for Packapalooza, a block party and street festival capping off Wolfpack Welcome Week.

Organizers promise they’ll have everything it takes to celebrate in NC State style, including great food, music and entertainment for the whole family. Here’s the lineup:

Live Music and Arts

Packapalooza features two spots for live music, including a stage near the Belltower featuring:

• Liquid Pleasure from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
• Mama’s Love from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• Leela James from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• Carolina Liar, the headliner, from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

A second stage near Patterson Hall features three local bands and eight student organizations from 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Paint, clay and fire hooping will all be part of the arts zone. Plus, a local artist will be painting a special commemorative piece during the event.

Sports, Community and Sustainability

Drop by the sports zone to try your hand at golf chipping, batting practice, video games and even a bungee trampoline. But it’s August in North Carolina, and a sports zone would not be complete without water activities. So bring your swimsuit and a towel, because we’re talking about a roaring rapids waterslide and a massive water-balloon battle.

Shake paws with Mr. Wuf, meet Tuffy—NC State’s living mascot—and grab autographs from your favorite NC State athletes in the Wolfpack zone.

The green zone features the university’s commitment to sustainability. Take a look at alternative-fuel vehicles, learn about recycling or just hang out in the misting tent.

Public-safety partners from the city of Raleigh will also be there. Climb on board a fire truck and meet members of the city’s canine unit.

Guest speakers will highlight NC State’s rich traditions, including the history of the Belltower and what makes it chime. (Hint: It’s not bells.) Organizers encourage everyone to donate canned food to the new food pantry.

Packapalooza is sponsored by the Hillsborough Street Community Service Corporation, the NC State 125^th Anniversary Committee and the Union Activities Board.