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Fall semester has arrived, bringing with it the excitement, energy and tradition that make life at Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»­ unforgettable. From first-year students finding their footing to returning Aztecs reconnecting with friends, the weeks ahead are filled with opportunities to celebrate, engage and start the year strong.

The first month of the semester is all about connection — connecting with classmates, with the city and with the spirit of being an Aztec. From late-night carnival rides and courtyard concerts to networking mixers and career fairs, there’s no shortage of ways to dive in.

This year’s kickoff calendar blends the best of student life, academics and San Diego culture. Whether you’re looking for a dance floor, a food fest or a chance to meet future employers, you’ll find it on campus in the weeks ahead.

And nothing embodies that spirit more than Aztec Football’s home opener at Snapdragon Stadium on Aug. 28. The roar of the crowd, the red and black under the lights and the thrill of a new season make this game a must-do at the highest order. Whether you’re in the stands, watching locally on KUSI or streaming on the Mountain West Network, the opener sets the tone for fall at Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»­.

To help you make the most of it, we’ve pulled together 10 things you need to do between Aug. 27 and Sept. 17. Think of it as your starter guide to fall at Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»­. Grab your friends, mark your calendars and get ready to make some memories ... because the semester only kicks off once.

Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»­ Fall Kickoff: Football Home Opener and 10 Other Events You Can’t Miss (Aug. 27 – Sept. 17, 2025)

Aztec Football Home Opener vs. Stony Brook
Aug. 28, 7 p.m.
Snapdragon Stadium
The Aztecs kick off the season under the lights at Snapdragon. Whether you’re in the stands or watching on KUSI or the Mountain West Network, it’s the game that sets the tone for fall.

A.S. Expo + Union Unlocked
Aug. 27, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. 
Lee and Frank Goldberg Courtyard, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
Kick off your semester in style! Cruise through the Student Union to explore campus services, grab your Explorer Card, collect prizes, and unlock freebies.

ARC After Dark
Aug. 29–30, 9 p.m.–1 a.m. 
Aztec Recreation Center
Glow-in-the-dark fun with inflatable obstacle courses, mini-golf, food, games, and more under campus lights.

Hello, San Diego! Food Night (Aztec Nights)
Aug. 30–31, 9 p.m.–1 a.m. 
Campanile Walkway
Savor San Diego’s best bites at this free late-night food fest—ideal for food lovers and new friends.

PAC the Union – 80s/90s Throwback Party
Sept. 6, 9 p.m.–1 a.m. 
Montezuma Hall
Break out your retro threads and get down to classic 80s and 90s beats—from music to a costume contest, it’s a campus party classic.

Monday Night Movies – The Parent Trap
Sept. 8, 6 p.m. 
Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union Theatre
Enjoy a free, nostalgic movie night with snacks in a relaxed, social campus setting.

Nooners: Student Talent Showcase
Sept. 10, Noon–1 p.m. 
Lee and Frank Goldberg Courtyard, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
Enjoy live performances by fellow Aztecs mid-day — great for lunch and community vibes.

STEM Career Fair
Sept. 11, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. 
Montezuma Hall
A prime opportunity for STEM students and alumni to network with employers across fields.

Graduate Student Mixer
Sept. 9, 5–7 p.m. 
Lee and Frank Goldberg Courtyard, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
Chill networking and mingling event for graduate students—a cozy setting for making connections.

Heatwave Hang
Sept. 15, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. 
Lee and Frank Goldberg Courtyard, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
Refresh yourself with sweet treats, games, and new friends at this late-summer courtyard hangout.

Create and Advocate: Where Art Meets Action
Sept. 17, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. 
Lee and Frank Goldberg Courtyard, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
Express yourself through interactive art and learn ways to advocate for issues that matter.