The Starlight Celebration and fireworks event on the University of North Georgia’s Gainesville Campus is set for Saturday, Aug. 27.
“Starlight is a UNG tradition that connects our campus with the community in a meaningful way each year, and I look forward to celebrating the start of the academic year with our students, alumni, faculty, staff and community members,” UNG President Bonita C. Jacobs said.
Gates will open at 6 p.m. for the event, which is full of performances and concludes with fireworks at dark. UNG students, faculty, and staff and community members are welcome.
The event is free, but parking costs $10 per car or $20 per bus, van, or larger vehicle. UNG students can enter for free with a valid UNG parking permit. No walk-ins are permitted. Proceeds from the event will help offset student financial needs.
All activities will take place in the G.W. Bailey Amphitheater at 3820 Mundy Mill Road in Oakwood, Georgia.
Continuing its tradition of family fun, Starlight will feature the presentation of colors by the UNG Corps of Cadets Color Guard with the national anthem performed by the UNG Patriot Choir. This is the 23rd year for Starlight. New this year will be a Sesquicentennial tent to view some institutional historical artifacts as UNG celebrates its 150th anniversary throughout the 2022-23 academic year.
All Catered Events will be selling Applewood smoked pulled pork, Brunswick stew, hand-breaded chicken tenders, slaw, pasta salad, chips, brownies, and cookies. Frozen Frenzee will be selling snow cones and coffee. Attendees may also bring their own picnic foods.
Fun includes a balloon artist, face painting, a play tent for children, and a glow tent. Nigel the Nighthawk, UNG’s mascot and always a crowd favorite, will again be present along with UNG student-athletes and cheerleaders.
Clay Christy with Brick House Mobile DJs will DJ for the event.
The following items are prohibited at Starlight: walk-ins, pets (other than service animals), sparklers or outside fireworks, grills or any open flames, political signage, advertisements, or unlawful weapons.
Additionally, everyone is encouraged to use #UNGstarlight when sharing their photos of family, friends and fireworks during and after the event.
For more information about Starlight, visit the Starlight Celebration event webpage