AubFest, a local DIY music festival, showcases regional bands around the Auburn area, emphasizing community and creativity.
The DIY music movement in Auburn was built on the belief that one can make anything happen, whether that means hosting shows in someone's basement or outside in the woods, like AubFest.
Music from all kinds of genres is performed at AubFest — ranging from hardcore rock to mellow indie — alongside other artistic ambitions including poetry, comedy, dance, yoga and much more, with opportunities for open-mic sessions.
The ticketed festival is an all-day activity with entry starting early in the morning and performances going throughout the afternoon and into the night.
The day is capped off with a bonfire, and on top of that, free optional camping for willing participants.
AubFest is hosted once a semester at Boggin’ on the Plains, an ATV Recreation Park in Auburn. The seventh festival will be this fall, with aspirations for AubFest to continue into the foreseeable future.
Ashley Prishutova Spencer, founder and organizer of AubFest, said this event is for any student — including freshmen — wanting to experience something new and exciting.
“[AubFest is] meant for anybody, but truly, [it is meant for] people that just have an open mind,” Spencer said.
Spencer graduated in May with a degree in environmental science. She hopes that she left behind a legacy within her community.
Yet, during her freshman year, she recalled how community was hard to come by.
“I think part of the process [of fitting in] as a freshman is just going to be difficult, no matter what. And I think that it’s kind of a beautiful part of being brand new somewhere,” Spencer said.
When Spencer created AubFest in 2022, things started looking up for her. AubFest allowed Spencer to finally find her people.
One thing Spencer wished she knew as a freshman was the idea of trusting the process. It is tough living in a new place with new people, but eventually, one will find their groove, according to Spencer.
“I think things [will] organically change for the better. You will find people [who] are your people, or you’ll find places that are your places and it will continue to grow,” Spencer said when asked about her advice for freshmen. “Give yourself grace and keep your head up. [Also] do your homework for real, don’t fail your classes.”
Spencer also emphasized that AubFest is a great starting point in finding a community.
Along with the two festivals a year, AubFest also hosts potlucks, dances, additional concerts and various other events for students.
To stay up to date with the latest AubFest news, Spencer suggests following them on Instagram @aubfest2025
AubFest is often described as a fun and spunky music festival, but it is so much more than that. AubFest is a family; the event brings people together, whether new or old.
Navigating freshman year can be tough, but college is filled with numerous opportunities and new experiences for people to get involved.
Among local events, AubFest is a favorite for current Auburn students and, potentially, upcoming freshmen alike.
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
Sam Bainter, freshman in English language arts education, is a culture writer for The Auburn Plainsman.
