Wichita State University invites the entire community to join in its Shocktoberfest celebrations in a week full of tradition and Shocker spirit. Shocktoberfest, which runs Sept. 30 through Oct. 5, is the university’s biggest annual event and will include a brew garden, bonfire, an entrepreneur’s market, parade and athletic events.
Shocktoberfest has been a Wichita State tradition since 1991 and offers something for everyone, with a variety of events that cater to students, alumni and the greater Wichita community. The weeklong celebration is designed to showcase the vibrant, inclusive culture of Wichita State. Some of the week’s highlights include the following:
- Bonfire – 7:30-9 p.m. Monday, Sept. 30 at Braeburn Square – Stay warm by the fire, and revel in the spirit of Shocktoberfest with WSU cheer, marching band and a few of your favorite athletes. This event will be on the lawn east of Braeburn Square near Oliver. Access the event from the bridge between Fuzzy's and Social Tap.
- Shocker Softball v. Butler Community College – 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 3 at Wilkins Stadium
- Patio Party – 5-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 5 at Braeburn Square – This casual gathering promises an unforgettable evening to connect with Shocker Nation. Enjoy deals from our vendors, food trucks, games and music.
- Shocker Baseball Fall Scrimmage – 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4 at Eck Stadium.
- Outdoor Movie: Disney's “Cars” – 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4 at Cessna Stadium -- Join us at the historical Cessna Stadium for a free viewing of Disney Pixar’s family classic “Cars.” Bring your blankets, camp chairs and make yourself comfortable on the field. Popcorn is provided and outside snacks are welcome.
The big day
Shocktoberfest culminates with a full day of festivities on Saturday, Oct. 5, offering a mix of events that bring together Shocker spirit, local entrepreneurs and family-friendly fun.
- The inaugural Entrepreneur Market – from 9 a.m.-noon on Oct. 5 at Woolsey Hall – will highlight the many diverse small businesses created by alumni, the community, friends of the university and students.
- Wichita State’s inaugural Shocktoberfest Brew Garden + Fan Fest is in partnership with Shocker Athletics and runs from 2-6 p.m. on Oct. 5. WSU will transform the alley and parking lot east of Charles Koch Arena for a fun-filled afternoon with music, food, drinks and fun for the whole family.
- The Shocktoberfest Parade, which begins at 4 p.m. Oct. 5, is the highlight of the weeklong celebration. Participants will enjoy entertainment from the Shocker Sound Machine marching band, dance teams and decorated cars and floats from student groups and community members. For the best parade experience, grab a spot along Innovation Boulevard, Mike Oatman Drive or Perimeter Road. These locations offer great views and are easily accessible.
- Shocker fans are invited to a free a sneak preview of the Wichita State men's and women's basketball teams at the annual Shocker Madness season kickoff event at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5 in Koch Arena.
About Wichita State University
Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 23,000 students between its main campus and WSU Tech, including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student centered and innovation driven.
Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students.
The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.
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