Fall Family Festival 2025: A weekend to roar about

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By Sayuri Vargas-Hernandez, Staff Writer

Campus came alive with thrilling rides, students’ laughter, and exciting activities on Oct.18 with another successful Fall Family Festival.

Many students brought their families, friends, and the local community. The event lasted three days, from Friday to Sunday, Oct. 17-19. But the main event was on Saturday.

This was a great opportunity for clubs to get donations from family members who want to support their child’s organization. A small donation can make a big difference.

A student organization, The Lions’ Pride Media Group, collected donations of $5 to support their work as a collegiate newspaper on campus. The raffle winner received a $50 gift card bundle.

The mechanical Bull was one of the favorites for all students! (Photo was taken by Sayuri Vargas-Hernandez)
Sororities joined the festival, too. Some sold cupcakes, others sold bracelets to raise support and stay visible on campus. (Photo was taken by Sayuri Vargas-Hernandez)
The rock wall was perfect for anyone who wasn’t afraid of heights and wanted a little adventure. (Photo was taken by Sayuri Vargas-Hernandez)
It quickly became a favorite spot for students to buy a pumpkin and take a photo with their loved ones. (Photo was taken by Sayuri Vargas-Hernandez)
It was heartwarming to see the university president, Dr. Jim Burkee, and his wife enjoying the festivities; it truly reflected their deep appreciation for the Saint Leo community. (Photo was taken by Sayuri Vargas-Hernandez)
Even the Benfica Academy kids got to join the fun at the Fall Family Festival, making the weekend feel even more connected and community-driven. (Photo was taken by Sayuri Vargas-Hernandez)
One of the most fun activities let students decorate their own lollipops, freeze them, and come back later to enjoy their sweet creations. (Photo was taken by Sayuri Vargas-Hernandez)

Richard Judd, grandfather of Brooke and Brianna Brinker, workers for The Lions’ Pride Media Group, won the raffle and plans to spend the gift cards on his grandchildren.

Another memorable moment was when a family member of a student shared her personal reason for supporting student media, reminding everyone of the power of storytelling and of helping others.

Small businesses showed up for this event, selling cute cups, aesthetic bags, and yummy desserts.

The food included Latin Grill, which is Hispanic food, and they were selling oven-baked empanadas, sandwiches, and desserts. Chick-fil-A was selling either nuggets or a sandwich, along with potato chips and beverages to complete their meal.

Popcorn, lollipops, and snow cones were free for everyone.

This made it enjoyable for families to sit down and have a great time together!

Rides and attractions arrived at the event, such as swings, bull riding, rock wall, a giant darts soccer game, bounce house obstacle course organized by the Campus Activities Board, and the rides brought joy to kids as well as students.

“My favorite thing to do at the Fall Family Festival was to meet all of the students and families! I loved getting to talk to everyone and tell them about the event. I also loved seeing everyone have so much fun and seeing that the event everyone worked so hard on was coming to life,” said Hayli Angarano, a Sophomore studying Liberal Arts and Saint Leo engagement assistant.

To finish the event, there were fireworks at the lakeside patio at 8 p.m. Many spent the weekend enjoying family time.

The festival wasn’t just fun; it was a time to reflect on Saint Leo’s values, such as family, service, and student leadership. It also gave clubs a chance to connect with the community and raise awareness for causes that matter. Students are already looking forward to next year’s festival.

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The Lions' Pride is a student-run news organization dedicated to sharing the voice of our Saint Leo community. Our mission is to uphold the Benedictine values, support First Amendment rights, and provide informative and thought-provoking journalism without fear of interference or reprisal.

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