Upcoming GatorFest! Events

logo for GatorFest! 2023

DISCLAIMER

Please note that all event details, including dates, times, and locations, are subject to change. We encourage students to regularly check the GatorXperience events page and this website for the most up-to-date event information. 

Additionally, for key events, RSVPs may be required, and spots may be limited. To secure your attendance and avoid disappointment, kindly RSVP promptly through the provided GatorXperience website link for each event. 

We appreciate your understanding and look forward to seeing you at our exciting campus events!

WEEK OF WELCOME (WOW!) :: August 11 - 20th

Welcome Reception

Location: Don Nasser Family Plaza

Date: August 11, 2023

Time: 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Description: Join us at our Welcome Reception as we kick off the new academic year with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Connect with fellow students, families, and staff, and embark on an exciting journey at our university. 

ChompFest

Location: Centennial Way

Date: August 12, 2023

Time: 11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Description: Get ready to indulge your taste buds at ChompFest on Centennial Way. Savor a delightful selection of delectable foods from local vendors and immerse yourself in a culinary experience like no other.

Family Welcome Reception

Location: Don Nasser Family Plaza

Date: Saturday, August 12, 2023

Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Description: New student and families, you're invited to a special gathering as the Division of Student Life warmly welcomes you to our campus community. Photo opps, music, and FREE FOOD -- see you there!

Family Farewell Reception

Location: Don Nasser Family Plaza

Date: Sunday, August 13, 2023

Time: 11:00 am - 1:00 pm

RSVP Here

Description: As our move-in weekend ends, we bid a fond farewell to the families who have supported our incoming students. The Family Farewell Reception at Don Nasser Plaza is a heartwarming event filled with new memories and goodbyes. Join us for brunch as we celebrate the beginning of your student's exciting college journey.

Community Stonestown and Target Trip

Location: Meet in respective Lounges. Travel to Target

Date: August 13, 2023

Time: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Description: Discover Stonestown as we embark on a fun-filled trip to Target. Meet in your respective lounges and explore the local area while shopping for essentials. This outing promises a great opportunity to connect with other Gators and become familiar with your new surroundings.

Find Your Campus Community

Location: Various Campus Locations

Dates: August 14, 2023 - August 17, 2023

Description: Eager to get out there and meet other Gators? Browse this week's selection of fun and casual socials, hosted by a number of student-led clubs, programs, and SFSU community members based on region, hobbies, identity, and more. With a different theme highlighted each day, you might find something that interests you every day of the week!

Community Meet & Greets

Location: Meet in your respective lounges/common areas.

Date: August 14, 2023

Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am

Description: Strengthen the bonds of our community by attending our interactive Meet and Greets. Connect with fellow residents in your respective lounges or common areas for engaging activities to foster lasting friendships and a sense of belonging.

Entering Year Pinning Ceremony & Class Photo

Location: Cox Stadium.

Date: August 14, 2023

Time: 10:30 am - 11:15 am

RSVP Here

Description: We cordially invite all incoming students to the highly anticipated Pinning Ceremony & Class Photo at the iconic Cox Stadium. Be featured in the annual class photo, and grab your purple SF State t-shirt and unique entering-year pin.

Residential Life Resource Center (Towers)

Location: Towers Junior Suites

Date: August 14, 2023 Time: 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Description: Visit the Residential Life Resource Center at Towers Junior Suites to access valuable information and resources. Our knowledgeable staff will be on hand to assist you in navigating campus life, finding support services, and making the most of your residential experience.

Kickoff Speaker: Gio Ortega

Location: Annex 1.

Date: August 15, 2023

Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am

Description: Hear from esteemed speaker Gio Ortega about how to make the most of your college experience, start strong, and find your people and voice. You don't want to miss this motivational moment with Gio Ortega. 

Play Fair!

Location: Annex 1

Date: August 15, 2023

Time: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm

Description: It's time for fun and games at Play Fair in the Student Life Events Center - Annex 1. Join us for an exciting array of activities and games that promise to bring out the child in all of us. Come and create unforgettable memories with your fellow Gators.

Taste of SF State

Location: Campus Quad & MXP

Date: August 16, 2023

Time: 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Description: Experience the diverse flavors of San Francisco State University at the Taste of SF State event. Savor an array of mouthwatering dishes and culinary delights from various campus eateries. This gastronomic journey promises to be a treat for your taste buds!

Community Floor Meetings

Location: Various Locations

Date: August 15-17, 2023

Time: Varies for Communities, Check with RAs

Description: Attend your respective Community Floor Meetings to meet your RA and fellow floor members. Learn about community guidelines, upcoming events, and opportunities to get involved on campus. Times will vary, so check with your RA for the specific schedule.

WOW Week Movie Night

Location: Village Steps

Date: August 17, 2023

Time: 8:30 PM

Description: Lights, camera, action! Join us for a captivating movie night on the Village steps under the stars. Relax with your friends and experience the magic of cinema in a picturesque outdoor setting in collaboration with Campus Recreation.

DECI Fair

Location: Malcolm X Plaza

Date: August 18, 2023

Time: 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Description: Learn about identity-based resources on campus with DECI, the Division of Equity & Community Inclusion. Connect with interfaith programs, the Black Unity Center, the Latinx Center, and Asian American & Pacific Islander Student Services!

SF SketchFest: ThemPark Improv Comedy Show at Welcome Week.

Location: McKenna Theatre

Date: August 18, 2023

Time: 8:30 pm - 10:00 pm

RSVP Here

Description: Be prepared to be entertained by SF SketchFest, an alumni founded comedy group, in McKenna Theatre. Laugh and be amazed as talented performers bring their comedic sketches to life, promising an evening of laughter and unforgettable moments. This SF State Tradition is one you do not want to miss! 

Back to School NoiseComplaint (Dance)

Location: Malcolm X

Date: August 19, 2023

Time: 9:00 pm - 12:30 am

Description: Get ready for an electrifying night at the Back to School NoiseComplaint dance! Join us at Malcolm X as we celebrate the start of the academic year with a DJ, great music, top-notch security, and time to dance the night away. Rest assured it will be a night to remember.

Drag Queen Bingo

Location: Mashouf Wellness Center - Gym

Date: August 19, 2023

Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Description: Calling all bingo enthusiasts and fans of fabulous and fantastic fun! Join us at the MWC GYM for an extraordinary game of Drag Queen Bingo. Expect an entertaining evening filled with laughter, prizes, and dazzling performances hosted by talented drag queens.

T'Was the Night Before Classes

Location: Community Lounges

Date: August 20, 2023

Time: 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Description: It's the night before classes, and we're gathering in the cozy ambiance of our Community Lounges. Share stories, make new friends, and relax before starting your academic journey. This is a great opportunity to review everything before the first day of classes (class locations, review syllabi, ask questions, and get organized). Don't miss this chance to bond with your fellow Gators as we embrace the excitement of a new semester.

===

WEEK ONE

First Day of Classes - Welcome Tables!

Location: Campus Wide

Dates: Monday, August 21 | Tuesday, August 22 | Wednesday, August 23 | Thursday, August 24

Time: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm (Monday & Tuesday), 9:00 am - 2:00 pm (Wednesday & Thursday)

Description: We're thrilled to welcome you to campus and kickstart your academic journey! Welcome Tables will be throughout campus to help you find classes, answer questions, and connect you with campus resources. Stop by and say, "Hi!" Go Gators! 

Student Org Resource Fair Week

Location: Malcolm X Plaza & University Quad

Date: August 21 - September 1, 2023

Time: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm

Description: Discover a world of opportunities at the Student Club & Organizations' Resource Fair Week! Connect with diverse student organizations, clubs, and associations to find your passion and get involved in campus life.

Gator Glow Night: Scavenger Hunt

Location: The Quad

Date: August 21, 2023

Time: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

RSVP Here

Description: Put on your neon and prepare for a thrilling Gator Glow Night Scavenger Hunt at The Quad! Join the adventure as teams explore campus while hunting for clues and hidden treasures. This glowing extravaganza promises a night of excitement and camaraderie.

Who's That Gator? Meet & Greet the New Mascot

Location: Malcolm X Plaza, Cesar Chavez Student Center

Date: August 23, 2023

Time: 9:00 am - 11:00 am

RSVP Here

Description: We are thrilled to invite you to a momentous event that promises excitement, school spirit, and a dash of mystery. Alli Gator, the embodiment of SF State’s pride and spirit, has undergone a makeover – help us welcome them to campus!

Enjoy a breakfast reception, free SF State gear, and photo opportunities with Alli. Hear the history and creative journey behind Alli Gator and the updated mascot design, and be the first to meet our brand-new, vibrant university mascot.

Rec the Night

Location: Mashouf Wellness Center

Date: August 24, 2023

Time: 7:00 pm - 11:00 pm

Description: Join us for a sensational evening of games and activities while you learn what Campus Rec is all about. Try out the climbing wall, learn about student job opportunities, and join the community. Get ready to make lasting memories as we celebrate the vibrant spirit of campus life at SF State!

Library 101: What the Library can do for you!

Location: J. Paul Leonard Library — Meet at the Book Checkout & Pickup Desk on the first floor

Date: August 24, 2023

Time: 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Description: Get a guided tour and an introduction to spaces, services, and resources you might not know exist, plus some Library swag! Students can RSVP through our GatorXperience event posts: https://sfsu.campuslabs.com/engage/organization/jpaullibrary

Jeki Yoo - Magician

Location: Annex 1

Date: August 25, 2023

Time: 8:00 pm

Description: Prepare to be amazed by the incredible talents of magician Jeki Yoo at the Student Life Events Center - Annex 1. Witness mind-bending illusions, astonishing tricks, and an evening of wonder that will leave you in awe.

San Francisco - City Tours

Location: Meet in respective residential community lounges.

Travel into SF Date: August 26, 2023

Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Description: Embark on a guided adventure through the iconic city of San Francisco! Meet in your respective lounges, and together, we'll explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods, historical landmarks, and cultural hotspots. Get ready to fall in love with the City by the Bay.

Stonestown Farmers Market Trip

Location: Meet in residential community lounges.

Travel to Stonestown Farmers Market Date: August 27, 2023

Time: 11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Description: Immerse yourself in Stonestown's Farmers Market. Meet in your respective lounges, and let's travel together to discover a delightful array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local treats.

UPD Open House 

Location: UPD Station, next to Annex 1 

Date: August 29 & 31 

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm 

Description: Come by and visit our campus partners at the Division of Campus Safety on Tuesday August 29 and Thursday August 31 from 1:00 pm -3:00 pm. Refreshments and giveaways will be available outside the station. If you would like a station tour, please see email link below. 

RSVP at updclu@sfsu.edu 

===

WEEK TWO

UPD Open House 

Location: UPD Station, next to Annex 1 

Date: August 29 & 31 

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm 

Description: Come by and visit our campus partners at the Division of Campus Safety on Tuesday August 29 and Thursday August 31 from 1:00 pm -3:00 pm. Refreshments and giveaways will be available outside the station. If you would like a station tour, please see email link below. 

RSVP at updclu@sfsu.edu 

Student Org Resource Fair Week

Location: Malcolm X Plaza & University Quad

Date: August 21 - September 1, 2023

Time: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm

Description: Discover a world of opportunities at the Student Club & Organizations' Resource Fair Week! Connect with diverse student organizations, clubs, and associations to find your passion and get involved in campus life.

Greek Week

Location: Malcolm X Plaza & Centennial Walkway

Date: August 28 - September 1, 2023

Description: Greek Week is here! Join our fraternities and sororities at Malcolm X Plaza and Centennial Walkway for a week of spirited events, friendly competitions, and celebrations of fraternity & sorority life. Show your support and experience the vibrant Greek community at SFSU.

Gator Glow Night: Flag Football

Location: Rec Field (next to Mashouf Wellness Center)

Date: August 28, 2023

Time: 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm

RSVP Here

Description: Gear up for a glow-in-the-dark showdown at the Gator Glow Night: Flag Football event on the Rec Field. Join teams of glowing players for an exciting game under the night sky. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a first-timer, this event will surely be a touchdown (get it?)!

Library 101: What the Library can do for you!

Location: J. Paul Leonard Library — Meet at the Book Checkout & Pickup Desk on the first floor

Date: August 29, 2023

Time: 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Description: Get a guided tour and an introduction to spaces, services, and resources you might not know exist, plus some Library swag! Students can RSVP through our GatorXperience event posts: https://sfsu.campuslabs.com/engage/organization/jpaullibrary

Student Life Carnival

Location: Quad

Date: September 2, 2023

Time: 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Description: Join us for the highly anticipated SF State tradition, the Student Life Carnival, where fun, games, and excitement await! Get ready to experience thrilling rides, delicious food, and entertainment. Student Activities & Events are hosting and bringing an experience you don't want to miss! 

Park Merced First Saturday

Location: Meet in respective community floor lounges.

Travel to Juan Bautista Circle.

Date: September 2, 2023

Time: 11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Description: Let's kick off the first Saturday of the semester with a trip to the picturesque Juan Bautista Circle. Meet in your respective lounges, and together we'll explore the beauty of Park Merced. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with fellow Gators and create lasting memories.

Sound Off - Silent Disco

Location: Student Life Events Center - Annex 1

Date: September 2, 2023

Time: 9:00 pm - 12:30 am

Description: From an outside perspective, it's totally strange. But with those headphones on, it is a total blast! Experience the ultimate Silent Disco at the Student Life Events Center (Annex 1)! Grab provided headphones, choose your station, and dance the night away to your favorite beats. This unique event promises an unforgettable night filled with music, laughter, and good vibes.

===

WEEK THREE

Study Abroad Fair & Contest

Location: Malcolm X Plaza

Date: September 6th - September 7th

Time: 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

RSVP Here

Description: Come meet all of our study abroad alumni and international students as they compete for the title of "best table" during our bi-annual international tabling competition. We will be handing out information about study abroad at each of our partner universities, and this is a great way to get in-depth information from students who have gone to school at our partner universities.

Purple World Outfit Contest

Location: Malcolm X Plaza

Date: Wednesday, September 6, 2023

Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm

RSVP Here

Description: Calling all trend-setting jet setters! Learn about SFSU Study Abroad and put together a head-to-toe purple look to enter our contest! Think you can find a way to wear the most purple? You just might take home a mystery prize.

Point System:

1 point - shirt, jacket, or pants
3 points - hair accessories, jewelry, backpack or bag, phone case, belt, glasses, and socks
5 points - make-up, purple-dyed hair
10 points - stuffed animal
20 points - Purple-dyed pets
Bring something we didn't think of and automatically get 25 points toward your total.

Library 101: What the Library can do for you!

Location: J. Paul Leonard Library — Meet at the Book Checkout & Pickup Desk on the first floor

Date: September 6, 2023

Time: 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Description: Get a guided tour and an introduction to spaces, services, and resources you might not know exist, plus some Library swag! Students can RSVP through our GatorXperience event posts: https://sfsu.campuslabs.com/engage/organization/jpaullibrary

Library 101: What the Library can do for you!

Location: J. Paul Leonard Library — Meet at the Book Checkout & Pickup Desk on the first floor

Date: September 7, 2023

Time: 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Description: Get a guided tour and an introduction to spaces, services, and resources you might not know exist, plus some Library swag! Students can RSVP through our GatorXperience event posts: https://sfsu.campuslabs.com/engage/organization/jpaullibrary

Jeffrey Jay (Comic)

Location: Student Life Events Center - Annex 1

Date: September 8, 2023

Time: 8:00 pm

Description: Get ready for an evening of laughter and entertainment as we welcome the talented comic Jeffery Jay, to SLEC - Annex 1. Their witty humor and engaging performance will leave you in stitches and uplifted.

Queer a la Mode

Location: CCSC Plaza Level

Date: September 13, 2023

Time: 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm

Description: Celebrate diversity and inclusivity at Queer a la Mode, a captivating event bringing together the beautiful SF State LGBTQ+ community. Join us at CCSC Plaza Level for an empowering and vibrant networking experience.

===

WEEK FOUR

Outdoor Games in the Quad

Location: Quad next to Malcolm X Plaza

Date: September 14, 2023

Time: 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm

RSVP Here

Description: Join the SFSU Street Team for some afternoon spikeball, Frisbee, and corn-hole in the Quad. All are invited to hang with us and enjoy the day!

Boathouse Paddle + Pizza

Location: Harding Park

Date: September 15, 2023

Time: 11:00 am - 1:00 pm

More Info Here

Description: Enjoy a day of outdoor fun at Harding Park with our Boathouse Paddle + Pizza event. Paddle along the serene waters and indulge in a scrumptious pizza pie with friends!

===

WEEK FIVE

Transfer Tea Party

Location: CCSC & MXP Quad

Date: September 18, 2023

Time: 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm

RSVP Here

Description: Welcome, transfer students! Join us at the Transfer Tea Party in MXP / Quad to connect with fellow transfers, learn about campus resources, and enjoy a delightful tea party experience.

Skating Gators

Location: Student Life Events Center - Annex 1

Date: September 21, 2023

Time: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM

Description: Glide and groove at Skating Gators, a neon-lit roller skating event at the Student Life Events Center - Annex 1. With a dazzling setup and vibrant atmosphere, it's the perfect opportunity to showcase your skating skills and have a blast with friends.

SARA | Sexual Violence Education

Location: TBD

Date: September 23, 2023

Time: 10:00 am - 11:30 am + 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Description: Join us for an important session on Sexual Violence Awareness. This educational event aims to raise awareness, foster dialogue, and empower our community to combat sexual violence. Note that two sessions will be held, one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

===

WEEK SIX

Back to School Beach Bonfire

Location: Ocean Beach

Date: September 26, 2023

Time: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Description: Get ready to unwind and have beachside fun at our Back to School Beach Bonfire! We'll provide snacks, beach games, and good company as you enjoy the bonfire's warm glow and the waves' soothing sound. There is nothing like the Northern Coast of California! 

Wags for Wellness #1

Location: Quad

Date: September 27, 2023

Time: 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm

Description: Hosted by Health Promotion & Wellness, the Wags for Wellness Program aims to build community through stress relief activities and raise awareness of mental health and wellness resources on campus. Studies show animals can help relieve anxiety, and just petting a dog or cat can lower your blood pressure. We hope you will come out to pet one of our visiting therapy animals! Therapy Animals are certified assisted therapy animals from the SF SPCA. For more information and updates, please visit: HPW - Wags for Wellness.

SFSU Giants Game

Location: ORACLE Park

Date: September 27, 2023

Time: 6:45 pm - 9:30 pm

Description: Cheer on our very own SFSU Giants as they take on their rivals in an exciting baseball game! Join us at the stadium and show your Gator pride as we root for our team. Alumni and students come together for an unforgettable sporting experience.

Full Moon Showing

Location: SFSU Planetarium

Date: September 29, 2023

Time: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

RSVP Here

Description: We invite the LGBTQ+ community and allies on campus for an evening gathering at the SFSU Planetarium. Join us to embrace the magic of the night sky, explore the wonders of the cosmos, and marvel at the beauty of the full moon!

WEEK EIGHT

Health Promotion & Wellness Fun Fest

Location: Malcolm X Plaza

Date: October 5, 2023

Time: 11 AM - 2 PM

Wags for Wellness #2

Location: Outside Health Promotion & Wellness Office (Google Maps Location Link)

Date: October 11, 2023

Time: 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

Description: Hosted by Health Promotion & Wellness, the Wags for Wellness Program aims to build community through stress relief activities and raise awareness of campus mental health and wellness resources. Studies show animals can help relieve anxiety, and petting a dog or cat can lower blood pressure. We hope you will come out to pet one of our visiting therapy animals! Therapy Animals are certified assisted therapy animals from the SF SPCA. For more information and updates, please visit HPW - Wags for Wellness.

Spicy Wing Contest

Location: Malcolm X Plaza

Date: October 12, 2023

Time: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Description: Calling all wing enthusiasts, compete to eat the spiciest chicken wings, Hot Ones style.

RSVP here

Jessica Care Moore Reading

Location: Marcus Hall Studio 1

Date: October 13, 2023

Time: 6:15 PM

Description: The SF State Foundation, The Division of Equity & Community Inclusion, and the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs & Enrollment Management are teaming up to bring you a powerful event with Jessica Care Moore. Tickets required. Tickets free for Students.

Tickets & More Info: https://sfsu.universitytickets.com/w/event.aspx?id=1507 

Flyer: https://newstudentprograms.sfsu.edu/image/jessica-care-moore-flyer

Mashouf Wellness Center Pool Party

Location: Mashouf Wellness Center

Date: October 13, 2023

Description: Dive into the fun at our Pool Party! Join us at the Mashouf Wellness Center for a refreshing afternoon of swimming, water games, and good times with fellow Gators. Details regarding timing will be announced soon.

===

WEEK NINE

Wags for Wellness #3 (at Campus Safety Week)

Location: SF State Quad / Malcolm X Plaza

Date: October 18, 2023

Time: 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

Description: Hosted by Health Promotion & Wellness, the Wags for Wellness Program aims to build community through stress relief activities and raise awareness of campus mental health and wellness resources. Studies show animals can help relieve anxiety, and petting a dog or cat can lower blood pressure. We hope you will come out to pet one of our visiting therapy animals! Therapy Animals are certified assisted therapy animals from the SF SPCA. For more information and updates, please visit HPW - Wags for Wellness.

Tom Deluca Hypnotist

Location: Annex 1

Date: October 20, 2023

Time: 8:00 PM

Description: Prepare to be amazed and entertained by the incredible Tom Deluca Hypnotist! Witness mind-bending illusions and hilarious antics that will leave you in awe and saying, "Wait, what?". Join us at McKenna Theatre for a night of unforgettable entertainment.

WEEK TEN

AS Movie Night

Location: TBD

Date: October 25, 2023

Time: 8:30 PM - 11:00 PM

Description: Grab your popcorn and get ready for AS Movie Night! Enjoy a cinematic experience with your friends as we screen a blockbuster movie. Stay tuned for updates on the movie selection and location.

===

WEEK ELEVEN

Costume Bingo

Location: Malcolm X Plaza

Date: October 31, 2023

Time: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Description: On Halloween, Gators gather in costume to play Bingo, eat candy, and win prizes. Bring your friends and join the fun!