A last minute decision to move Fisherpalooza indoors due to chilly weather turned out to be the best thing that has happened with the concert in years. 

For the first time, Fisherpalooza, an all-day concert coordinated by the Class of 2009 officers, was held in conjunction with the Student Activities Board Spring Carnival and Resident Student Association’s Little Siblings Weekend.  All three programs were held together in the Varsity Gym, involving students and their siblings.

“Fisherpalooza is a great way for everyone to take a break from their busy last week of the semester and come out, listen to some great music, get free stuff, and just have a good time with friends,” Class of 2009 Vice President Michelle Pierce said.

This year’s concert had a Hawaiian theme apparent through related inflatable games, candy art, leis, themed refreshments courtesy of Bon Appétit and of course,  “I got lei’d” T-shirts, which were distributed as raffle prizes.

Bands Simplelife and Jared Campbell headlined the event, with Simplelife opening at 2 p.m. and Jared Campbell taking the stage at 5 p.m. to conclude the concert.  Between these two acts, Fisherpalooza also featured performances from the Fisher Dance Team, Arts in Motion (AIM) and Fisher Radio.

In past years, Fisherpalooza has tended to attract only a small crowd despite the appealing musical performances, games, and prizes offered.  The trend did not continue this year, as the gym was packed with students and siblings enjoying a variety of activities and live music. 

“I think the combination of Fisherpalooza, the Spring Carnival and Little Siblings Weekend is an opportunity to maximize resources for a successful large-scale annual event,” Tom Rodgers, director of Campus Life, said.

Students also voiced approval of the combination of events. 

“The kids make it more spirited and uplifting,” sophomore Sarah Reittinger said. “They bring out the fun in everyone.”

Senior Sheldon Swift also liked the change.

“I was very impressed with the variety of activities,” Swift said. “It made it more than just an event for the little siblings; it was enjoyable for the students as well.”

Many students said they liked how the siblings changed the dynamic of the event, making it more appealing to a larger population.  Others noted that one event with a wider array of activities is much better than three separate events at the same time that would pull meager attendance individually.

Junior Danielle Valerino put everything into perspective, saying, “It was a lot of fun for both students and their siblings, and a great end to the semester.”