Spring Fest Blooms Despite Wintry Temps

Awkwardly racing through an adult-sized inflatable obstacle course knocked the glasses right off senior Ashwin Jacob’s nose, as he finished behind friend Helena Lee ’24 during Spring Fest on Friday.

They were among hundreds of students who braved apocalyptic skies and unseasonable cold for Student Entertainment Events’ annual arts and culture festival on McKeldin Mall.

Terps lined up for free scoops of Maryland Dairy ice cream and entertainment from a rotating lineup on stage, including Not My Cargos kicking things off with a “queer platonic love song” and a cappella group DaCadence, whose members are warming up for nationals later this month.

“It’s a good way to take your mind off things,” said Lee, “and have a little break so you can go back to studying.”

Emily Garcia ’24 was among the many student vendors who sold everything from handmade jewelry to crocheted bags and clothing. Through her small business, Wittle Spoonie, she offered cute stickers and prints of her own design.

“I started my business at UMD—the Dingman Center really helped me grow—so I jump for it any time there’s a chance to sell on campus,” she said.

Throughout the evening, students collected balloon flowers and caricatures, took on their friends at inflatable boxing and collected swag, including commemorative Art Attack bucket hats promoting SEE’s 40th show on May 3 and 4. (The artist has yet to be announced.)

As the winds died down, the evening ended with a spectacular fireworks show.