If you’re looking for one of the most vibrant, high-energy events in Raleigh, you can’t miss Packapalooza™. This annual street festival is more than just a kickoff to the NC State University academic year — it’s a massive celebration of community, spirit, and all things Wolfpack. Drawing tens of thousands to Hillsborough Street each August, Packapalooza™ is a must-experience tradition whether you’re a student, alum, proud parent, or simply someone who loves the electric atmosphere of big city festivals.
In 2025, Packapalooza™ takes over Hillsborough Street on Saturday, August 23 from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. Mark your calendar now, because this is one Raleigh event you’ll want to plan your whole weekend around.
What is Packapalooza™?
Packapalooza™ is NC State University’s signature block party and street festival. It caps off Wolfpack Welcome Week, which is an exciting series of events welcoming new and returning students to campus. But Packapalooza™ isn’t just for students. It’s grown into one of the largest community festivals in the Triangle, inviting the entire Raleigh area — from families and local residents to faculty, staff, and alumni — to come together and celebrate the Wolfpack spirit.
Over 85,000 people attended the last Packapalooza™, and with more than 300 vendor booths, live music on multiple stages, interactive activities, local eats, and Wolfpack-themed giveaways, it’s easy to see why this festival is such a hit year after year.
Where is Packapalooza™ held?
The festival stretches along Hillsborough Street, right next to NC State’s campus. The street is closed to traffic for the day, transforming into a lively pedestrian zone lined with vendor tents, food trucks, community booths, activity zones, and performance stages.
Hillsborough Street itself is a landmark in Raleigh, known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, coffee shops, local businesses, and college-town energy. During Packapalooza™, it becomes the heart of the celebration.
When is Packapalooza™ 2025?
Packapalooza™ 2025 is scheduled for Saturday, August 23, from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m.
This date is carefully chosen to coincide with the close of Wolfpack Welcome Week, setting the stage for the academic year ahead.
Whether you’re dropping off a first-year student, returning to reconnect with fellow alumni, or just hunting for the best local events in Raleigh, it’s a date you won’t want to miss.
What can you expect at Packapalooza™?
🎶 Live music and performances
Music is at the heart of Packapalooza™, with multiple stages featuring local and regional bands, DJs, cultural dance groups, and headline artists. The festival traditionally closes with a big name on the main stage, delivering a concert-style experience that draws thousands right up to the stage.
In past years, Packapalooza™ has welcomed artists across a variety of genres, from hip-hop and indie rock to pop and country, making sure there’s something for everyone.
🍔 Food trucks and local eats
No Raleigh festival is complete without fantastic food. Packapalooza™ lines up some of the area’s best food trucks and local vendors, offering everything from barbecue and tacos to gourmet ice cream and international dishes.
It’s the perfect chance to sample bites from around the Triangle without having to travel all over town.
🛍️ 300+ vendor booths and exhibitors
More than 300 vendors set up shop along Hillsborough Street, including local businesses, nonprofit organizations, campus departments, student groups, and sponsor partners. You can browse unique merchandise, score free swag, learn about local services, and connect with community resources.
🎨 Family-friendly fun and activities
Packapalooza™ is very much a family affair. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, bounce houses, face painting, hands-on STEM demonstrations, and playful Wolfpack-themed activities. It’s a safe, welcoming environment for all ages.
🐺 A huge dose of Wolfpack pride
Everywhere you look, you’ll see NC State’s red and white, the strutting Tuffy mascot, and students proudly wearing their Wolfpack gear. It’s a celebration of university tradition and unity that spills over to alumni and fans alike.
Who organizes Packapalooza™?
Packapalooza™ is presented by Live It Up! Hillsborough Street, an organization dedicated to promoting the businesses and community spirit of Hillsborough Street. The event also gets major support from NC State University, dozens of campus departments, student organizations, and over 50 sponsoring companies and organizations.
Their collective efforts turn a long stretch of Hillsborough Street into a bustling festival zone that’s safe, well-organized, and packed with entertainment.
Why is Packapalooza™ such a big deal in Raleigh?
Packapalooza™ isn’t just another college event — it’s one of the largest annual gatherings in the Raleigh area, regularly pulling in crowds of over 85,000 people. For many, it’s a tradition that marks the end of summer and the start of a new season, whether you’re tied to the university or not.
It’s also an amazing showcase of Raleigh’s energy. Visitors get to explore local businesses, try diverse food, watch incredible talent, and meet people from all walks of life. It’s the perfect example of why so many people love calling Raleigh home.
Tips for enjoying Packapalooza™
If you’re planning to attend Packapalooza™ 2025, here are a few helpful tips:
✅ Plan your parking. Hillsborough Street will be closed off, and nearby parking lots fill quickly. Consider parking further out and taking a shuttle or rideshare.
✅ Dress for the weather. August in Raleigh can be hot and humid. Lightweight clothes, a hat, and sunscreen are musts. Bring a small backpack with water to stay hydrated.
✅ Bring some cash. While many vendors accept cards, some still prefer cash for quicker transactions.
✅ Keep an eye on event maps and schedules. With multiple stages and hundreds of vendors, it pays to pick up an event guide or download details beforehand so you don’t miss your favorite acts.
✅ Plan for the evening concert. The main stage fills up fast, so if you want to be close, stake out your spot early.
Packapalooza™ FAQs
Is Packapalooza™ free?
Yes! The entire festival is free to attend, including all the live performances and many of the family-friendly activities. Food and shopping are pay-as-you-go.
Do I need to register?
No registration is required for general attendance. Just show up and join the fun.
Can I bring my dog?
Packapalooza™ is dog-friendly, but with huge crowds and loud music, it might not be the best experience for all pets. Use your best judgment.
Where can I find more information?
Closer to the event, NC State and Live It Up! Hillsborough Street publish detailed maps, entertainment schedules, and parking guides on their websites and social media.
Make Packapalooza™ part of your Raleigh summer
Whether you’re an NC State student soaking up your first Wolfpack Welcome Week, an alum reconnecting with old memories, or simply someone hunting for the best festivals in Raleigh, Packapalooza™ offers something truly special.
It’s one of those events that captures the spirit of community, pride, and fun that makes Raleigh such an amazing place to live. So circle August 23, 2025, on your calendar, round up your friends or family, and get ready for a day (and night) of unforgettable music, food, and Wolfpack excitement.
