Mayfest 2019: What to Expect

It’s that time of the semester. Classes are winding down, final exams and projects are picking up, and the snow is (hopefully) behind us! According to our calculations, that means Mayfest is right around the corner!

Mayfest 2019 is Friday, April 26, from 1 to 6 p.m. at Walnut Park. If you’ve never been to Mayfest, you should know that it’s a Syracuse University tradition for everyone to come together and celebrate the end of the spring semester. That means a free (for SU and ESF undergrads) day of food, fun activities and a serious line up of talented musical artists. If you’re a Mayfest pro, you know that University Union (UU) keeps all the best parts year-after-year, but still keeps it fresh. AND, whether you are a first-timer or seasoned pro, it’s always important to be a safe, respectful community member (be sure to review this message from Mayor Ben Walsh and be mindful of the city ordinances and Code of Student Conduct).

So, if you plan on attending Mayfest this year, here’s what to expect:

The Music

UU did it again! This year’s Mayfest line up is exciting, eclectic and sure to be a hit. Taking the 2019 stage is rapper Saba, electronic artist Whethan, and Adult Mom. Need to know more about your 2019 artists? Check out the UU blog for the deets.

The Fun

Mayfest is way more than just music! There’s a whole lineup of fun activities this year including face painting, a selfie worthy mural and a ball pit. Back again this year is the Silent Disco. So be ready to dance like you’re the only one listening! As if that wasn’t enough, the big ticket item this year is… wait for it… A CAROUSEL! Imagine all the incredible Instagram material you’re going to have. (Thanks, UU!)

The Food

Let’s be honest, if you didn’t get a corn dog, did you even go to Mayfest? Not into corn dogs? There’s loads of free food to choose from. We’re talking burgers, hot dogs, chicken tornadoes, and all the orange soda you can drink. There’s more than just orange soda, but you get the idea. And don’t worry, there’s plenty of vegetarian and halal options, too!

The 21-and-Over Section

Even though there is plenty to do at Mayfest for people who choose not to drink and/or are under 21, there is a designated section for students and their guests who are of legal drinking age. If you’re 21 or over and chose to drink, there are bracelets available for $3 that include three tabs redeemable for a total of three beverages. This years beverage choices include beer, gluten free beer, hard cider and wine slushies. If you’re 21 or over but choose not to drink and still want to hang with your friends in the designated beverage area, you’re more than welcome to. New this year, students of legal drinking age can opt to have a free non-beverage bracelet that grants them access into the designated beverage area. If you’re looking for either bracelet option, please note that you CANNOT obtain a bracelet at the park during the event. All bracelets must be obtained in 304ABC Schine Student Center prior to gaining access to the park. You can get a bracelet Wednesday, April 24 and Thursday, April 25, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. or Friday, April 26, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Plan ahead and get your bracelet early! For more info on beverage and non beverage bracelets, be sure to read the Mayfest 2019 Need-to-Knows or check the SU Mayfest website.

We’ll see you Friday, April 26 in Walnut Park for Mayfest 2019! Remember to be safe and have fun!

If you have any questions, visit University Union’s website and the SU Mayfest website for all the information you might need. There’s a lot of things you might want know that aren’t covered in this post like guest ticket information, day-of-rules and parking. Make sure you know the rules and are prepared! Being prepared makes the day so much better for you, your classmates and the awesome people that make Mayfest happen.