Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor - The Auburn Plainsman

A cow's nose is gently touching a person's hand, who is offering food while standing behind a green gate.

Elizabeth Marsh | Photographer

Community

From hooves to scales: Vet Fest showcases animal science at Auburn

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | April 11

Auburn University’s College of Veterinary Medicine (AUVCM) hosted its third annual Vet Fest on April 11 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Located at their campus on Wire Road, this free, family-friendly event invites the entire Auburn community to learn and see what the college of veterinary medicine does. With plenty of educational and hands-on activities, Vet Fest aims to both educate and entertain its guests.

Wilson Gore (left) and Curry Jones (right) from The Band Honey perform in front of the audience at AubFest on Friday, March 20, 2026 in Auburn, Ala.

Roxy Duda | Photographer

Lifestyle

AubFest VIII creates community through a weekend of music and art

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor and Emily Edgy | Lifestyle Writer | March 22

From March 20-22, AubFest hosted nearly 1,300 attendees for its eighth edition at local ATV park Boggin’ on the Plains. The biannual independent music and arts festival showcased over 25 artists and 30 different performances, including headliner Carver Commodore. Along with live music and entertainment, guests enjoyed local vendors, food trucks and camping.

A simplistic outline of a woman's face intertwines with a pair of headphones against a gradient purple background.

Ellie Hobbs | Graphics Artist

Lifestyle

Monthly picks: A woman-led movie, book and album for March

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | March 6

March is designated as Women’s History Month; It’s a time to celebrate the contributions of women to America’s history, their accomplishments and how they have impacted society. In honor of this celebration of women, I’ve picked a movie, book and album that are created by women and feature empowering stories, but also capture the essence of the upcoming spring season.

Big Al and Aubie pose for a photo with a man. Archived photo.

Lifestyle

More than a mascot: A deep dive on Aubie

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | February 18

The energetic, head-bobbling beloved mascot of Auburn University, Aubie the Tiger has been a fan favorite now for over 60 years. His charm and ability to get the crowd on their feet have consistently won over new and longtime fans alike. It’s hard to imagine a time before this lovable mascot was the face of Auburn, but Aubie has not always been around.

Jack Dutton (middle) with Gavin Fisch (right) and basketball star Keyshawn Hall (left).

Contributed by Gavin Fisch

Lifestyle

In memory of Jack Dutton

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | February 2

It is an honor to recognize a student whose character, dedication and impact have left a lasting impression on Auburn University’s community. Jack Dutton, junior in Auburn’s Professional Flight program, passed away on Dec. 18, 2025, following a tragic plane crash in Statesville, North Carolina. Dutton's passing, together with his father Dennis and others, is deeply felt across the Auburn community.

Two glass hourglasses filled with red sand are positioned on a textured background of soft, colorful clouds.

Ellie Hobbs | Graphics Artist

Lifestyle

Monthly picks: A 'timeless' movie, book and album for February

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | February 1

As the ice of January melts away, February marks a time of celebrating the special connections we have in our lives. Whether it be family, friends or significant others, this month is focused on all sorts of love. To celebrate the new month, I’ve curated a list of entertainment, including a movie, book and album, guaranteed to set the mood for the season.

Contributed by Carrington Allen

Lifestyle

A backstage look at AubFest

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | December 28

Auburn’s own DIY music festival AubFest had its seventh successful edition from Oct. 3 to 5, uniting the community with music performed by over 30 regional bands. Starting as a simple idea by an Auburn University student, Ashley Spencer, the festival is now a non-profit event and has quickly blossomed into a beloved, biannual tradition. However many attendees do not realize the amount of hard work that Auburn University students dedicate to the festival.

Contributed by Sophia Aulisio

Identities

Sophia Aulisio and Thomas Lester: Two students inventing their own paths

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | November 25

Sophia Aulisio and Thomas Lester, two Auburn University students, have successfully made new products within the past year. They were also featured in the 2025 Inno Under 25 of the Birmingham Business Journal. With Aulisio’s volleyball gear and Lester’s instant-heat coffee, they are changing the world, one idea at a time.

Inside The Auburn Popcorn Company on Nov. 11, 2025.

Estela Munoz | Assistant Photo Editor

Lifestyle

Pop on in to The Auburn Popcorn Company

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | November 18

Since opening in 2017, The Auburn Popcorn Company has been gracing downtown Auburn's presence with freshly popped popcorn. With about 14 different flavors, there is a salty and sweet treat for everyone who ventures into the store.

A stylish interior features a dark tiled wall, illuminated sign reading "Olivine," lush green plants, and plush seating.

Wyatt Loftin | Photographer

Lifestyle

Exclusive look at Olivine, downtown Auburn's new rooftop restaurant

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | November 14

The new rooftop bar and restaurant Olivine hosted an exclusive first look on the evening of Nov. 13. Auburn’s newest rooftop experience offers a menu inspired by Italian cuisine mixed with Southern charm. Although opening officially on Nov. 19, Olivine invited a select few to an exclusive fine dining experience.