Get ready to howl. NC State students, faculty, alumni, and community members will flood Hillsborough Street for the annual Packapalooza block party and street festival this Saturday, Aug. 26.

This free celebration from 2 to 10 p.m. wraps up Wolfpack Welcome Week with family-friendly activities, music, entertainment, food, and enough NC State spirit for a pack rally.

The day, which attracts over 85,000 visitors, will close with an exciting performance at 8:45 p.m. by “American Idol” star David Cook at the Belltower Stage, followed by fireworks, a laser light show, and don't forget to watch the iconic Belltower light up red.

But before you throw on your Wolfpack gear and start humming the "Red and White Song," here is a preview of what's to come:

Strength in the Pack of vendors

Three stages and more than 300 vendors will be set up and ready to paint the town red. From community services and kid zones to savory and sweet treat vendors, there are plenty of activities and to-dos to keep the whole family entertained.

Your City Editors will definitely shoot their shot at kicking a field goal and riding a mechanical bull at the play zone. Plus, visit the Wolfpack zone to chat big game with the Wolfpack Club and to learn about game day activities.

Use this map as your Hillsborough Street guide. | Sceenshot via NC State Guides

Where to park

There are three public parking options to choose from: Dan Allen Parking Deck at 110 Dan Allen Dr.; Coliseum Parking Deck at 201 Jeter Dr.; and street parking is available on the side streets of Hillsborough Street like in the Village District, which is a three-block walk from the event. City of Raleigh buses and the NC State Wolfline bus system will be running routes near the event as well.

Pro tip: Download the NC State University Guides app for NC State and Packapalooza updates.