The leaves burst into life as did the Academic Quad as alumni, students and families attended the Homecoming Fair this past Saturday, Oct. 20. From noon to 4 p.m., the walkways bustled with attendees who were in search of a witty T-shirt, delectable baked good or imaginative craft. 
This year, over 60 student groups and seven outside vendors, including alumni-owned businesses, contributed to the Homecoming Fair. Not only did alumni act as vendors, but they provided entertainment. Alumnus Darren Frehulfer ’10 performed acoustically on a stage in the center of the quad. Throughout the afternoon, his covers of Jack Johnson, Jason Mraz and Gavin DeGraw created a relaxed and homey atmosphere.
The biggest change the Fair saw this year was its move from Brinser Field to the Academic Quad. Alumni Relations decided to change the location because the Academic Quad had never been used before due to construction and grass seeding. Senior Homecoming chair Kristen Lacaillade said, “This change in location is being done on a trial basis, to see how it works out for years to come. It is also being used to attract alumni, donors and parents to the new space so that they are able to see it since they will be on campus.”
The move was well received by many current students. “I really like it. All the events’ locations are very close to each other and this area seems more organized and less chaotic,” said junior Megan Leppo. However, some alumni were apprehensive about the change. “I don’t know if I like it. It seems very spread out and not as intimate as Brinser did,” alumna Nicole Teran Shehee ’09 said. 
Despite mixed reviews about the location, the Homecoming Fair established a way for current students to promote their clubs and fundraise. Many tables were filled with a myriad of colorful and comical T-shirts. The infamous T-shirt battle of wit created camaraderie among the student groups, and many chuckles were heard as alumni, families and students saw them. Sophomore Brendon Zapata said, “Seeing all of the alumni coming back and reliving memories is awesome. [The Fair is] also a great way for clubs to promote themselves and get their name out there.” 
Whether it’s located on Brinser Field or in the Academic Quad, the Homecoming Fair is a haven of creativity, reminiscing and reunion. The location doesn’t matter, just the fellowship and love of Elizabethtown College that is felt.