WQAQ’s first “Festapalooza” made its debut on April 20, attracting all types of students as the music of six local bands from the tri-state area blasted from Burt Kahn Court.

“I think it was a good turnout,” Peter DeBarros, a freshman and member of WQAQ, said. “‘Great Caesar’ was amazing and a lot of people seemed to be really enjoying the music, which was our main goal. We want these bands to gain a more popular fan base.”

Featured bands included “Titus Andronicus”, “Bomb! The Music Industy”, “The Front Bottoms”, “Great Caesar”, “The Guru”, and “The Midnighters.”

“The Midnighters” were the opening act, and added a softer, more relaxed tone to the show. They were also the winners of this year’s Battle of the Bands.

There remained a laid back atmosphere although the music was loud. People socialized freely as they grabbed some food and listened to the music.

The food available included wraps from Ray & Mike’s Deli, Primo’s, Griff’s Chicken Shack, Chinese food from Giant’s Dumpling, and frozen yogurt from Peachy Keen for event-goers.

Upon entry, everyone was given a raffle ticket for a chance to win a free guitar or other smaller prizes. In between various performances a raffle would be drawn, awarding free t-shirts to the a number of attendees.

Most people sat on the ground while they ate. Some of the more dedicated fans, however, stood close to the stage, swaying to the music. Elijah Westbrook, a freshman commented, “Some people were getting really into the music. I felt like I was at Woodstock.”

“Setting up was rough, but it was worth it because I got to meet and talk to the bands,” Benny Dilla, another freshman member of WQAQ said. “Plus it was nice that even though it took a while to set up, a lot of people showed up.”

Dilla also mentioned next year’s “Festapalooza,” securing that this will be an annual event.

“It would be awesome if it could be on the quad next year since the event did so well,” he said. “We definitely had more people attend tonight than the number of tickets sold for O.A.R.”