Central Arizona College’s student engagement group hosted its annual Welcome Festival at the Maricopa campus last night as part of the college’s Fall Welcome Week.

The free community event filled the campus with students, families, faculty and staff. For students, there were plenty of activities including a student club fair, resource booths and live entertainment. For kids, the event hosted face painting, balloon and wire art, jewelry crafts, food and giveaways. The first 100 students received free CAC water bottles and shirts.

All four CAC campuses had Welcome Festivals of their own. Leadership said the events are designed to “foster engagement, belonging and connection while introducing students to the wide variety of clubs, organizations and support services available.”

The Office of Student Life emphasizes “inclusion, leadership development, wellness, cultural awareness and community partnerships” through events like these.

Here’s the photo gallery: