5 Ways to make the Best of BEst Fest

The Weeks of Welcome continue with yet another opportunity to meet other students and get involved. BEst Fest is your chance to get a glimpse of all the ways to become more connected to campus.

“BEst FEST is more than just a welcome-back celebration – it’s a reminder that every student has a place at the College,” says Nicole Killen, director of the Center for Sustainable Development, who was part of the BEst Fest planning committee. “This vibrant festival invites students to start the year by showing up authentically, building meaningful connections with the campus and greater Charleston communities, and embracing a true sense of belonging. Most importantly: BE YOU! BE connected, BE intentional and BElong!”

With a food truck, crafts and more than 100 student organizations, on-campus offices and departments and off-campus community partners hosting games, offering snacks and providing information, BEst Fest has something for everyone! So, whether you’re interested in joining the Taylor Swift Club or taking a swing at Club Baseball, skip the FOMO and get involved at BEst Fest!

Grab your roommate, friend from class or come out solo to join the fun in the Cistern Yard from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sept. 3, 2025!

I won’t just leave you hanging though! Below are five ways to make the BEst of this unBElievable opportunity!

Stretch Yourself

Yoga in Randolph Hall
10–11 a.m.
Alumni Hall (Randolph Hall, second floor)
Do it with me: Take a deep breath in, hold, breathe out. Start the day off with a calming yoga session led by Executive Vice President of Student Affairs Alicia Caudill. From child’s pose to downward dog, this is a great way to relax, enjoy a peaceful morning, test your flexibility and wake up your body for a full day of exploring!

Find Your People

Involvement Fair
11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Cistern Yard
Stroll through the Cistern Yard and take in the Involvement Fair. To your left and right are student organizations, clubs and more just waiting to talk to you! CofC has over 240 clubs, so embrace the opportunity to explore a few in one day. Browse tables while making new friends, getting involved and even winning prizes! Find your new talent or interest with fellow students under the live oak trees!

Dress the Part

12–4 p.m.
Cistern Yard
This is your chance to expand your collection of College of Charleston swag! Rep the Cougars by visiting the Cougar Free Store Pop-Up. Yes, you read that right: It’s all free! Show your Cougar pride without breaking the bank. Maroon is definitely your color!

Take the Plunge

12–4 p.m.
Cistern Yard
Not basketball, but better. Two words that make every event more fun: dunk tank. Test your arm with the chance to dunk a few super special guests. They’re certainly going to make a splash! So come stretched and ready to send your favorite faculty members swimming.

Get Comfy

7–10 p.m.
Cistern Yard
End the day with snacks and a screening of Disney’s 2003 blockbuster, Finding Nemo. Sit back and enjoy popcorn and cotton candy while watching Marlon search for our favorite clownfish. Travel all the way to P. Sherman 42 Wallaby Way right from Cistern Yard! What club do you think Dory would join? My money is on the CofC Cheese Club.