HARRISONBURG VA: (ROCKTOWN NOW) – Downtown Harrisonburg was buzzing with a sea of purple on Saturday as thousands of James Madison University students gathered for the annual “Block Party in the ’Burg.” Hosted by Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance, the event welcomed new and returning Dukes with an afternoon full of music, games, giveaways, and community connection. From 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., the streets were closed to traffic and opened to celebration, marking a vibrant start to the academic year.
This year’s block party was especially significant as it featured the first public appearance of JMU’s new president, Jim Schmidt. Schmidt, who began his tenure on July 1, lead a parade along with the JMU Marching Dukes, kicking of Saturdays party. Schmidt emphasized the importance of the event in building strong ties between the university and the city. “The Block Party in the ’Burg is a powerful opportunity to build meaningful, lasting connections between JMU students and Harrisonburg’s vibrant local businesses,” he said. “The Harrisonburg community and JMU are interdependent… I’m proud to be part of a tradition that strengthens that bond.”
Students from the Class of 2029 and upperclassmen enjoyed a wide variety of attractions. Local businesses and sponsors like CommonWealth One, Campus Cookies, and Domino’s set up interactive booths offering free swag and prizes. Henna tattoos, tie-dye stations, and a photo booth added to the festive atmosphere, while a mini petting zoo featuring ponies and farm dogs drew crowds throughout the afternoon. Inflatable basketball games and a prize wheel kept the energy high, and students received tote bags filled with goodies to commemorate the day.
One of the most cherished traditions continued this year: students left their handprints on the mural at OASIS Fine Art & Craft, symbolizing their personal mark on the community. This symbolic gesture has become a rite of passage for many first-year students and a visual reminder of the bond between JMU and Harrisonburg.
To ensure safety and accessibility, several downtown streets were temporarily closed, including portions of Main Street and Court Square. Parking decks and municipal lots remained open, and volunteers helped guide attendees through the area.
The Block Party in the ’Burg not only serves as a fun kickoff to the school year but also reinforces the connection between JMU students and the Harrisonburg community. Local businesses benefit from the increased foot traffic, and students gain a deeper appreciation for their new home away from home. As the music faded and the streets reopened, the spirit of unity and celebration lingered—proof that this beloved tradition continues to thrive.
JMU students & President Jim Schmidt to participate in “Block Party in the ‘Burg” – Rocktown Now
