Gardner-Webb, Boiling Springs, and YMCA Team Up for Octoberfest Fun

Campus Tradition Returns with New features, Outdoor Activities, and a Spooky Surprise for the Community

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—An annual fall tradition held on the Gardner-Webb University campus for two decades returns this year with a new feature and a different location. Octoberfest will be on Thursday, Oct. 30, from 6 to 8 p.m. Everything will take place outside. Please note change: the games, activities and Trunk-or-Treat will be located in the Bost Gym/Swimming Pool Parking Lot.

Joining the University as hosts for the evening of family fun are the town of Boiling Springs and the Ruby C. Hunt YMCA. The town will have fire and rescue vehicles on display, and for the first time, the YMCA is bringing its “Spooky Bus” for additional entertainment. Gardner-Webb will serve pizza and student clubs and teams will provide games and other activities along with candy and prizes.

“Since its start in 2005, Octoberfest has been more than just an event, it’s a tradition that brings our campus and community together each year to celebrate connection, friendship, and the joy of the season,” noted Associate Minister for Community Engagement and Athletics Isaiah Crawford. “Every year, we come together to make memories, share laughter, and strengthen the bonds that make our community so special.”

Ruby C. Hunt YMCA Family Programs Director Amber Wray is excited to introduce the “Spooky Bus.”

“At the Y, we’re all about building community and creating spaces where families can connect,” Wray noted. “The ‘Spooky Bus’ is our way of bringing that mission to life—a place where kids can literally step into Halloween fun. It’s not your average ride—our bus has been transformed into a mini haunted house, with little to no spooks—just laughter, lights, and a whole lot of YMCA joy. The best part? It doesn’t even move!”

Boiling Springs Town Manager, Zachary Parker, said the display of fire and rescue vehicles accomplishes two goals. “We love collaborating with our partners, like GWU, Boiling Springs Fire Rescue, and Cleveland County EMS to invest in our community capital,” Parker affirmed. “This event provides an excellent outlet for families and children to participate in safe, fun, and informative trick-or-treating. The event also highlights the oftentimes unnoticed heroes who serve our community day-in and day-out.” 

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event.  Please call 704-406-4270 or email [email protected] with your request.

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Learn more at gardner-webb.edu.