By Lee Kling

SPARTAFEST, the Oktoberfest of York College, is a full weekend of activities for alumni, families and students.

“SpartaFest is an annual tradition each fall sponsored by the Office of Alumni Relations where we invite our alumni back to campus for an Octoberfest-style picnic that includes food, drinks, games, music and more.” says Andrea Jackson, assistant director of development events. 

SpartaFest and Fall Fest are a part of the homecoming weekend taking place Sept. 30 through Oct. 2. SpartaFest is more directed toward alumni and their families while Fall Fest is directed towards current students and their families. The event has been going on for 8 years and typically they have 300 to 400 alumni attend.

“SpartaFest is definitely the highlight of Fall Fest & Homecoming Weekend for our alumni – it’s a fun time!” Jackson adds.

SpartaFest is an ongoing tradition that is a highlight for many alumni and families. The goal is to bring back alumni to see what has changed on campus and just giving them the opportunity to come back and relive some of their best memories. Jackson stated that this event gives them a chance to see what might have changed since they were last here and gives them an opportunity to reunite and catch up with their fellow alumni. 

Jackson noted that current students can attend only if their parents/guardians are alumni who are also attending. Overall, the weekend is filled with many other great events for current students to enjoy. 

Fall Fest is the main attraction for current students, with many events and attractions for everyone.

Jackson mentioned a few highlights, including performers, the 11th annual 5K and Fun Run Saturday morning, Coffee & Conversation with professors and administrators, athletic events and Screamer’s Birthday Bingo.

The free Spartakids Fun Run for children 12 and under will begin at 8 a.m.; the 5K will begin at 8:30 a.m. Cost with preregistration is $10 for students; $25 for York College alumni and employees, and community members; and $30 on the day of the event. For additional information or questions, contact alumni@ycp.edu.

New this year will be an academic/department open house, hosted by some of the school’s faculty and staff. Many of these events wouldn’t be possible without the help from the Office of Student Activities and Campus Activities Board (CAB).

“It is a terrific atmosphere under the tent enjoying the beautiful fall weather in York,” Jackson says. “Events all weekend long are focused on learning about new and exciting things on campus, reconnecting with professors or old friends, and having a good time.”

This is a weekend for the community of York College to come together and share an eventful weekend together. For more details on the homecoming weekend and events, please visit ycp.edu/fallfest or ycp.edu/about-us/offices-and-departments/alumni-relations/events/spartafest/. 

Lee Kling is a senior majoring in Criminology.