Rowan-Cabarrus Invites Everyone to Free Fall Fest and Campus Candy Crawl
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College invites students and community members to bring their families and friends to Fall Fest for an evening of live music, children’s activities and a Campus Candy Crawl. The FREE event will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, October 29, at North Campus in Salisbury, and everyone is invited to attend.
Organized by Student Life & Leadership Development, Recruitment, and Advising departments, this year’s Fall Fest will feature the storybook-inspired theme “Navigate Your Story.” Activities will include a pumpkin patch, children’s activities inspired by classic tales and a Campus Candy Crawl. Everyone can collect treats and learn about academic programs, short-term workforce training, personal enrichment classes and transfer pathways to four-year institutions. Y2K Kids, a six-piece cover band specializing in pop, rock, hip-hop and R&B hits from the 2000s, will perform live music on the Outdoor Learning Center stage.
“Everyone comes to Rowan-Cabarrus with a different story and a different goal,” said Dr. Carol S. Spalding, president of Rowan-Cabarrus. “Some are preparing for their first career or a transfer to a four-year institution. Others need short-term training or want to learn something new for their own enjoyment. Fall Fest is an invitation to get to know the College and discover what the next chapter could look like… with candy.”
Admission and activities are free for everyone, with food available for purchase from participating food trucks. Through Student Life & Leadership Development, Rowan-Cabarrus curriculum students will receive tickets for food for themselves and up to three guests.
“There is something special about seeing a campus full of community college students, their families, and neighbors enjoying an evening together,” said Dr. Natasha Lipscomb, vice president of Student Success Services. “Fall Fest is an opportunity to celebrate community while showcasing the many pathways and supports available at Rowan-Cabarrus. Families can connect with our academic program leaders, student organizations, recruitment and advising staff, and wellness center services. Whether someone is exploring college for the first time or looking for their next educational step, we hope they will feel welcome, ask questions, and have fun while discovering how Rowan-Cabarrus can help them achieve their goals.”
Fall Fest will take place at the Outdoor Learning Center and N105 Patio at North Campus, 1333 Jake Alexander Blvd. S., Salisbury. Attendees are encouraged to park in the N106 parking lot. The event will take place rain or shine, with activities moved indoors in the event of inclement weather.
“Sometimes an interest in a career begins with a simple conversation,” said Dr. Michael Quillen, vice president of Academic Programs. “The Campus Candy Crawl gives families a chance to ask questions about what students learn in our programs and where that education can lead. Children and teenagers can imagine their futures, and adults may discover an opportunity for themselves, too!”
Everyone is welcome, and no registration is required. Bring family and friends to enjoy an evening of music, treats and fall activities at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. Admission and activities are free. For event details, visit rccc.edu/fallfest2026.


