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Hornet Nest Fest
Join Us At 2026 Hornet Nest Fest!
Kick off the fall semester with a buzz at Hornet Nest Fest, Sac State’s official fall welcome celebration!
Meet and connect with fellow Hornets, enjoy free food and giveaways, explore campus resources, dance to music, play games, and experience one of Sac State’s biggest welcome events of the year.
All students enrolled for Fall 2026 are welcome.
Date: Friday, August 28, 2026
Time: 6 - 11 p.m.
Location: Sacramento State Campus
What's Hornet Nest Fest?
Hornet Nest Fest is the official kick-off to the fall semester and a chance for students to celebrate the start of a new academic year together. The event brings the campus community to life with food, music, giveaways, campus exhibitors, activities, games, and plenty of Hornet spirit.
Whether you are new to Sac State or returning for another year, Hornet Nest Fest is a great way to find your community, make memories, and make the Hive your home.
Explore Event Zones
Hornet Nest Fest will feature several activity zones designed to help students explore, connect, and have fun throughout the evening.
Welcome Zone
Check in, grab event information, pick up giveaways, and get ready to enjoy the night.
Food Zone
Enjoy free food while supplies last and take a break with friends.
Connection Zone
Meet new people, connect with student organizations, and discover ways to get involved at Sac State. This zone is designed for mingling, conversation, and community-building – whether you are looking for a club to join, a cause to support, or just a chance to meet other Hornets.
Entertainment Zone
Bring your energy to the Entertainment Zone, featuring a live set by Sacramento’s own DJ Schmunty! Enjoy music, dancing, and a high-energy atmosphere as we celebrate the start of the semester together.
Creative Zone
Meet new friends, connect with student organizations, and take part in hands-on creative crafts and activities as you explore the Sac State community.
Splash Zone
Cool off and have fun in the Splash Zone! Students who plan to participate should consider bringing swimwear or clothing they do not mind getting wet. A towel, change of clothes, and water-friendly shoes are also recommended.
What to Expect
Students can look forward to:
- Free food while supplies last
- Giveaways and Sac State swag
- Music and dancing
- Games and interactive activities
- Campus exhibitors and resource tables
- Opportunities to meet other students
- A chance to meet President Wood
- A fun start to the fall semester
Before You Go
Hornet Nest Fest is an outdoor event with active games and water-based activities. Please dress comfortably and consider bringing:
- Swimwear or clothing you do not mind getting wet
- A towel
- Sunscreen/lotion
- A change of clothes
- Comfortable shoes
View photos and videos from previous years to see what the event is all about.
Frequently Asked Questions
All students enrolled for Fall 2026 are welcome to attend Hornet Nest Fest.
Hornet Nest Fest will take place at the Main Quad on the Sacramento State campus.
Students can register by clicking the “Register Now” button on this page.
Yes. Hornet Nest Fest is free for Fall 2026 enrolled students. Free food, giveaways, activities, and entertainment will be available while supplies last.
Students can enjoy music, food, giveaways, campus exhibitors, creative activities, student organization connections, and interactive zones throughout the event.
Hornet Nest Fest will feature several event zones, including the Welcome Zone, Food Zone, Connection Zone, Entertainment Zone, Creative Zone, and Splash Zone. Each zone offers a different way to connect, explore, and celebrate the start of the semester.
Some activities in the Splash Zone may involve water. Participation is optional, but students who want to join in should consider wearing swimwear or clothing they do not mind getting wet. A towel, change of clothes, and water-friendly shoes are also recommended.
Students should bring their Sac State student ID, a refillable water bottle, and any personal items needed to enjoy the event comfortably. Students planning to participate in the Splash Zone may also want to bring a towel and change of clothes.
Yes. Free food will be available while supplies last.
Parking information will be shared with registered students closer to the event date.
Students who need accommodations may request them when completing the Hornet Nest Fest registration form. Please submit accommodation requests as early as possible so the planning team has time to review and coordinate support.
Zero Waste Event
What is a Zero Waste Event?
"Zero Waste” means at least 90% of waste generated at an event is diverted from the landfill. Keeping campus waste out of local landfills is a critical component of sustainable operations at Sac State and for reducing global greenhouse gas emissions. Sac State has established a 2030 zero-waste goal.
- Following Sac State's goal of zero waste by 2030, we are striving to make Hornet Nest Fest a zero waste event with the goal of 90%+ waste diversion.
- Help us achieve this goal by following instructions and signs on how to properly dispose of your waste when at the event.
Contact Us
Email a2th@csus.edu for assistance or questions about Hornet Nest Fest!