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Welcome Back, Wolfpack!

People are sitting together beside the bell tower at NC State
Welcome back to a new academic year at NC State! New students are moving in, students and faculty are starting classes for the fall semester, and everyone is preparing for exciting changes. 

As always, we are wishing everyone luck in their new endeavors, and we are excited to see what this year brings!

Packapalooza is Saturday, August 22

Packapalooza is NC State’s block party and street festival, which is held on Saturday, August 22, 2026 from 2:00 to 10:00pm. Packapalooza welcomes everyone, including students, faculty, staff, alums, families and community members! 

This year’s Packapalooza features family-friendly activities, food, over 350 vendor booths, live music and performances and finishes with a fireworks show. Bring your blanket, kids, friends and plenty of Wolfpack pride! 

Finding Your Place on Campus

For new college students, it can be difficult to get involved and create a community. The first few weeks matter. Here are a few ways to start off your college experience strong: 

Wolfpack Welcome Weeks

Wolfpack Welcome Weeks includes over 200 events and activities to help new students learn about your new home, make friends and build your community! Download the NC State University Guides app to build your own schedule.

Student Involvement Fair

Student Involvement Fair on August 24 runs from 2:00 to 5:00 pm and puts hundreds of student organizations in one place. You don’t have to commit to anything, but you can explore and find your place in the Pack!

Get Involved

Get Involved (getinvolved.ncsu.edu) lets you browse organizations, events and track involvement. This is an easy way to see what’s happening on campus so you can get involved whenever you’re ready!