UB kicks off fall semester with music, magic and more

Welcome Weekend, a campus tradition packed with events to officially kick off the start of the fall semester, offers a little bit of everything this year: a parade, a dance party, grand illusions and fireworks.

“Opening week always brings an added level of excitement to campus, providing our students the ability to explore new opportunities and build community,” says Brian Hamluk, vice president for student life. “With many impactful events planned, I look forward to seeing the campus come alive with energy, school spirit and an enhanced student experience that capitalizes on everything the University at Buffalo has to offer.”

It all begins with move-in day for new students on Thursday, Aug. 21, and continues over the next three days, leading up to the first day of classes on Monday, Aug. 25.

The weekend offers a chance for students to learn more about campus clubs, jobs and resources, while providing plenty of opportunity to socialize.

Among the highlights is the fifth annual “Welcome Back Blast,” a free event billed as UB’s biggest spirit rally of the year. The blast provides an evening of entertainment for the entire UB community, starting at 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 23, in UB Stadium.

Gates for this year’s event open at 7:30 p.m. The Bulls Welcome Back Blast will feature singer Sydney Sterlace, a West Seneca native who placed in the top three on Season 26 of “The Voice” on NBC, and illusionist Leone Etienne, who will take the stage as part of his Magic Rocks! Tour.

Peter Johnson, host of the popular video series “That UB Life,” and local television personality Heather Prusak will serve as co-master of ceremonies for the evening, which will also include a performance by the UB marching band, spirit teams, UB athlete introductions, student contests presented by the National Buffalo Wing Festival and a live DJ. Complimentary ice cream will be available to all fans, while supplies last, courtesy of Perry’s Ice Cream.

The finale will feature a fireworks display presented by the UB Student Association.

“It’s more than just a celebration — it’s the first step in helping students feel connected, confident and at home here at UB,” says Phyllis Floro, director of student engagement. “From the moment they move in, with teams of UB staff ready to welcome them, students are introduced to the energy, support and opportunities that define the UB experience.”

Other events during the weekend include:

• A student-led parade to kick off the Festival of Culture Uniting Students (FOCUS), 8-11 p.m. Thursday outside Goodyear Hall on the South Campus, featuring games and international food.
• The New Student Welcome and human interlocking UB, 7:45-8:45 p.m. Friday in UB Stadium.
• Campus Fest, 5-8 p.m. Saturday in the Furnas parking lot and the Student Union field, featuring opportunities to learn about and take part in student-run clubs and organizations.
• Victor’s Glow Zone Dance Party, 10 p.m. Saturday on the Student Union field, following the conclusion of the Welcome Back Blast.

See the full calendar of events for the weekend.