Since 2022, AubFest, a DIY music festival created by Auburn University students, has provided a platform for voices in the community to be amplified and celebrated. On March 22, the festival is set to return for its sixth edition — bringing music, comedy and art to the grounds of Boggin’ on the Plains.
Boggin’ on the Plains, an Auburn ATV recreation park, will host the festival consisting of different alternative bands, food trucks and independent artists selling their creations.
AubFest’s creation emerged from a period in time where Auburn was generally bereft of an alternative music scene.
Ashley Spencer, senior in environmental science and the festival’s founder, became fixated on the idea of creating a music festival in Auburn during an emotional period in her life. It became increasingly important for Spencer to develop a space for people with different musical preferences.
“We want AubFest not to be an indie festival or rock festival. We want it to be a showcase of the sounds of our area,” Spencer said.
The festival offers attendees a way to discover a diverse range of voices from the Auburn community and support local artists. The organizers choose bands from surrounding areas based on the quality and the originality of their music.
AubFest shows the modern inheritance of the music shows from the 1970s, when DIY movements peaked. It mixes influences from punk, rock, grunge and hippie to create a space where everyone is welcome to express themselves and get to know others with similar musical tastes.
Following its 2022 debut, AubFest has reappeared each fall and spring, with organizers selecting dates that are likely to have pleasant weather.
The project has evolved and grown in popularity over the years, becoming a prime example of the DIY movement. This is not only reflected in the organized lineup of musicians — it is also evident in the festival’s flyers, in the creativity of attendee’s outfits and in the art and photography that is produced as a result of AubFest.
“It's a creative event. So, people are going to be able to express themselves and show what they want to show,” said Aiden Calderon-Wyant, wildlife ecology and management major who oversees AubFest’s program logistics.
The festival opens up a space for all those that need to be heard in some way, creating an inclusive environment for all to enjoy.
“What makes this festival special is the fact that it is not for profit. The lifeblood of this community, the teams behind AubFest, we truly do seek to put on a festival for the people to let the voice of Auburn be heard and we fight so hard to allow that spirit, that sense of ‘come as you are,’ to exist and thrive,” said Tyler Padgett, hospitality management major and AubFest’s coordinator of vendors.
This spring, AubFest will provide another stage for the community to delight in local musical and artistic talent.
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