California State University, Stanislaus is hoping to bridge the gap between town and gown this Sunday with games, food, and activities at the fourth annual StanFest Community Carnival. Hosted by Associated Student Incorporated, the free event will give members of the university and the community the perfect opportunity to come together and have fun.

“This carnival is a great way to interact with the community and invite them on campus,” said Assistant Director of Programs and Leadership for Associated Students Aubrey Nelson. “This way we are not just a university of students, we are more of a community.”

The community carnival is aimed at kids between the ages of two and 12. Activities include carnival style games, bounce houses, a photo booth that encourages children to play dress up, and a tie dying activity.

According to Nelson, the carnival is just one of the many ways that the university is reaching out to the community in order to build a stronger relationship.

“I think it’s vital for students to be able to meet the community and for the community to meet the students,” said Nelson. “It goes a long way to building relationships for students so that when they graduate, they will want to stay local.”

The carnival will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday in the quad. Guests are encouraged to bring sunscreen, a cap or visor, money for concession stands, and a shirt for the tie dying activity.

In addition, the university will also host a StanFest Concert Saturday evening. This year’s concert is electronic dance music style and will give guests three hours of dancing in a safe and fun environment.

 Although free to CSU Stanislaus students, members of the community must purchase presale tickets for the concert at $15 each.  Tickets can be purchased by calling 667-3815. Tickets will also be available for purchase at the door for $20. The concert will take place from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the university’s amphitheatre.