aerial view of Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµlawn and clocktower with people walking around and visiting the multicolored tents

Week of Welcome & Valley Ballyhoo

Week of Welcome, August 15–22, 2026

At WCU, we welcome our students back to campus for the fall semester with a week full of activities! Kicked off by New Student Convocation and Valley Ballyhoo, this fun-filled week has something for everyone! Visit to see all events happening across campus!

people walking around visiting tents set up on the UC lawn near the Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµclocktower on a sunny day

Valley Ballyhoo

Valley Ballyhoo is an annual fair occuring on the Saturday before Fall classes, featuring student organizations, Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµDepartments and Programs, and community organizations! The 2026 event is scheduled for August 15th and registration will open on June 22nd for student groups and Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµdepartments/affiliates. Community group registration will open on July 13th.

A crowd of WUC students cheering in front of a concert barrier

Week of Welcome (WOW)

A full schedule of Week of Welcome events will be released in August!

Valley Ballyhoo Equipment Rules For Registrants

  • We do not provide access to power, and we do not provide tents/canopies.
  • We do not provide access to power or water.
  • If you bring your own tent, you must bring your own weights. Weights must be 10 lbs on each leg. Maximum tent size is 10x10. Unweighted tents will not be allowed.
  • Sales, solicitations, and games of chance of any kind are NOT permitted at the event.
  • No animals are permitted as part of displays.
  • Please do not move your table from its location.
  • Table preferences/requests are honored when possible but are NOT guaranteed. 
  • Please don't block the egress of foot traffic. Standing behind your table and allowing attendees to come to you is encouraged. 
  • Your table must have a representative at all times.
  • No amplified sound (speakers, microphones, noisemakers)
  • You must ensure you do not encroach on other organizations’ table space. Organizations should refrain from soliciting beyond your approved table space. 
  • ALL food giveaway items MUST be prepackaged and sealed by an appropriate distributor. Self-packaged items are not permitted. [No exceptions to this rule unless permitted by Catamount Dining]