The start of a new school year always brings excitement for the NC State community. Students, faculty and staff have returned to campus, Wolfpack football season is around the corner, and, best of all, it’s time to ring in the fall semester with Packapalooza™.

Back again for 2026, NC State’s all-day block party along Hillsborough Street is set for Saturday, Aug. 22 from 2-10 p.m. 

Pack the street alongside thousands of NC State students, faculty, staff, alums and members of the local community as the signature street festival continues Wolfpack Welcome Weeks in a day filled with music, entertainment, family-friendly activities and everything that embodies the Wolfpack spirit.

Presented by Live It Up! Hillsborough Street, this cherished tradition that annually attracts over 90,000 attendees will feature more than 300 vendor booths supported by over 50 sponsoring organizations. 

With carnival style food and games, along with opportunities to win free swag and learn more about NC State’s various programs and organizations, there’s something for everyone. 

Packapalooza™ will feature an eclectic mix of live music and performances across multiple stages, featuring a performance by musical headliner Y2K: The Millennium Party, along with a grand finale of fireworks at the Belltower main stage. 

Interested in making Packaplaooza™ a success and a great time for all in attendance? The planning committee is seeking faculty and staff volunteers to help execute this all-day event. Interested volunteers should sign up by Aug. 7 to receive their preferred t-shirt size.

Learn more and register: https://packapalooza.ncsu.edu/volunteer/

This post was originally published in DASA.