With many students spending hundreds of dollars on books and school supplies each fall, getting anything for free seems impossible – with the exception of WelcomeFest.

No one knows for sure how long WelcomeFest has been a fall tradition at Iowa State, but students and area businesses look forward to the annual extravaganza.

WelcomeFest is an opportunity for new and returning students to get free stuff – everything from food and coupons to pens and job applications, said Laura Bestler-Wilcox, assistant director for Student Activities.

Nearly 100 area businesses will be there from 5:30 to 9 p.m. today at the Great Hall of the Memorial Union.

“Students can get lots of free stuff – from candy and pop to free pizza and sandwiches,” Bestler-Wilcox said.

Last year more than 3,000 students took part in what Bestler-Wilcox called “a menagerie of unique items to Ames, Iowa.”

She said there is a technique to experiencing WelcomeFest without feeling overwhelmed.

Most students arrive when the doors open, but businesses come prepared.

Bestler-Wilcox recommends arriving after 6:30 p.m. because the “rush of students” happens between 5:30 and 7 p.m.

“Everything from student organizations to floral shops, to pizza places, to recreational businesses to tattoo parlors, and most abundantly, cellular phone businesses,” she said will be in attendance.

WelcomeFest used to be held at the Lied Recreation Center, but moved to The Great Hall a few years ago because of air conditioning in the Memorial Union.

“This is an important event for new students to attend so they can learn about the various businesses and services that are available to them,” Bestler-Wilcox said.

Joy Carroll, a campus minister at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church and Student Center, 2210 Lincoln Way, is coordinating the church’s booth at WelcomeFest. Last year more than 100 students signed on to a mailing list.

Carroll said WelcomeFest is a great opportunity “to get the word out about the community here that wants to welcome students who want to get involved. Rather in retreats or bible studies and faith sharing.”

It’s an opportunity also for students to meet campus ministers because “if they were involved in church at home it would be good for them to have a base here.”

Bestler-Wilcox said students should check out a booth focused on a new campus event, Spirit Week.

Spiritual organizations, volunteer groups and campus organizations will all be represented at WelcomeFest, but it is different from the ClubFest that will be held on Sept. 18.