Get ready, Millikin. Milli-Fest is taking over campus for a weekend packed with community, creativity, and connection.
Hosted and organized entirely by Millikin students, the festival turns student ideas into real-world fun for all ages.
“I think it’s a great event for the community to come and see,” Amy Taute, Director of Alumni Engagement, said. “Here’s a learning opportunity; if you’re a student, you can have a real-world experience to kind of create something… They really thought of everything.”
Friday: Movie Night on the Quad
The festivities kick off on Friday, April 17th, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., with Movie Night on the Quad.
Families can sprawl out under the stars with blankets and lawn chairs to watch Monsters University. Alongside the big screen, enjoy food trucks, vendors, games, and a kids’ craft zone.
Plus free treats for everyone.
It’s the perfect chance to relax after a long week, grab a snack, and enjoy activities for all ages.
Saturday: The Main Event
The fun continues Saturday, April 18th, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with nearly 40 vendors ready to explore.
Think of local artisans, delicious food trucks catering to every craving, and hands-on activities for kids. From “Touch-a-Truck” excitement to meeting local authors and influencers, it’s a full day of small-town charm and big energy.
And when the sun sets, the celebration doesn’t stop.
From 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Millikin students and their college-aged guests are invited to a college-themed party featuring games, take-home gifts, free food tickets for the first 50 guests, and yes, there will be a mechanical bull.
“[I am] definitely [excited for] the mechanical bull,” Millikin student Leah Flint said. “[I’ve] never been on one; [it] looks really fun, and I hope it brings college kids in.”
More Than Just an Event
Milli-Fest isn’t just about food and fun. It’s about building community.
“We sell what a college experience is to families every day,” Molly Berry, Interim Vice President of Admission and Student Affairs, said. “It’s about campus environment. That’s part of the promise we make is that campus culture is thriving… Culture to find belonging and stay.”
A Celebration for Everyone
Whether you come for movie night, the vendor market, or the college bash, Milli-Fest has something for everyone.
“It’s free, it’s fun, it’s the perfect end of the year thing,” Berry said.
