The annual Wolfieland carnival returned to Stony Brook University on September 20, drawing large crowds of students to the Student Activities Center parking lot. The event, now in its ninth year, featured rides, games, and food vendors that transformed the commuter lot into a festival setting lasting into the night.
Within half an hour of opening, the area was crowded with attendees. Students participated in activities such as cornhole and mock game shows while others lined up for wristbands granting access to rides like the Ferris wheel and Round Up. Competitive games were also popular among those hoping to win stuffed prizes.
Freshman Tanisha Muralimanohar attended with her friend Aadya Sharma. She said, “We’ve already played the water gun game ten times tonight.”
Food trucks circled the event space, serving students who had waited in long lines. Benches around the perimeter were filled with people enjoying drinks from Vitamin Water and Coca-Cola tents.
Beth Portnoy, assistant vice president of communications for Undergraduate Student Government (USG), noted improvements over previous years: “This year feels like a huge upgrade. We’ve added new vendors, the turnout has been amazing, and everything feels in control.”
For many first-year students, Wolfieland marked a significant campus experience. Returning participants described it as a familiar tradition. Richard Gatteau, vice president for student affairs, said, “It’s one of our most incredible traditions. It’s a wonderful partnership between USG and student engagement, a true example of community building. Honestly, it even feels like a reunion.”
Event organizers introduced several changes this year including new sponsors such as Adobe Express and additional attractions like the Tokyo Drift ride. Sebastian Adams, USG’s vice president of student life, said: “We’re expecting record numbers this year. I just wanted to show out and bring some new things to the table.”
Throughout the evening students gathered on the asphalt or posed for photos under festival lights. As festivities ended and food trucks departed, groups left carrying prizes from games.
Wolfieland concluded after hours of music and activity at Stony Brook University.