Whether you are new to campus or returning for another year, students are encouraged to participate in WelcomeFest, hosted in the Memorial Union’s Great Hall on Wednesday from 5:30-8:30 p.m.
“WelcomeFest can help students find the products and services they need, whether that’s a place to live, their new favorite restaurant, or a great haircut,” Kristine Heflin, associate director of the Memorial Union for student engagement, stated in an email to the Daily.
Heflin said WelcomeFest will feature freebies, giveaways, food samples and a free, reusable shopping bag provided by the West Ames Hy-Vee.
WelcomeFest is a great introduction to Ames, with over 100 businesses and vendors partaking this fall, Heflin said.
“The fall 2024 event will have over 100 vendors representing a wide range of products and services,” Heflin said. “There are several new businesses participating this fall including Dog-Eared Books, Marmalade Moon, Anime-Ames, Seven Oaks Recreation and Retrieving Freedom.”
Other businesses partaking in this semester’s event include restaurant establishments, apparel and merchandising stores and housing options. Heflin said students can connect with these local businesses and learn about their products and services.
The event also features over a half dozen housing options like RES Properties and Campustown.
“Whether students are new this semester or are just looking for a new hangout or hobby, there is something for everyone,” Heflin said. “When students feel a sense of connection to the campus and the surrounding community, they are more likely to persist at Iowa State and make progress toward graduation.”
Helfin said that Student Engagement is expecting hundreds of students and has seen over 3,000 students stop by in the past few years.
“I am not sure how long WelcomeFest has been going on, but it has existed in some form for at least 20 years,” Helfin said.
WelcomeFest is a biannual event generally held at the beginning of each semester. To see the complete list of vendors, visit the WelcomeFest page.
