Students spin the prize wheel during the Springfest celebration.
Students enjoy the Giant Banana Split served in a canoe during Springfest.
The Stratton Quadrangle was full of students enjoying food, fun and games April 21-26, as Southern Illinois University Edwardsville celebrated Springfest. Dating back to the 1960s, Springfest is the longest running annual tradition on the SIUE campus.
“Springfest is designed to celebrate the end of the academic year, unify the campus community and spark SIUE pride,” said Anee Korme, assistant director of campus life. “Students enjoy gathering on the quad to enjoy the spring weather.
“Springfest reminds students that the end of the year is coming. It’s a moment to celebrate themselves along with celebrating SIUE.”
Each year, a different theme is chosen to accompany the event. This year’s theme was based on the bestselling book and worldwide sensation, “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.” Students honored the theme by competing in this year’s “Cougar Games” in hopes of gaining the most spirit points.
Springfest’s 4,000 participants enjoyed a variety of activities:
- Springfest Queen and King voting
- Chalk Mural Design Competition
- Springfest Trivia Tournament
- Food eating competition
- Springfest Scavenger Hunt
- Physical challenges and games
- Student Organization Fair
- Giant Banana Split served from a canoe, sponsored by TheBANK of Edwardsville
- Free screening of “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” and costume contest
- Woodland Bowl Flour War, sponsored by A Cross Between
On Thursday, April 24, the winners of the “Cougar Games” were announced for two categories: Top Student Organization and Top Fraternity or Sorority. The first place winners, Red Storm and Sigma Tau Gamma, received a trophy and $400 in organization funding. The second place winners, Hispanic Student Union and Alpha Phi, were awarded $200 in funding.
Springfest came to a close on Saturday, April 26, with the Springfest Carnival. Sponsored by University Housing, the carnival included games, crafts, food and rides.
Springfest is planned and organized by the Campus Activities Board, overseen by the Kimmel Student Involvement Center. The Campus Activities Board plans and produces more than 150 events on campus each year to contribute to campus life and promote school spirit.