Colonie Central High School’s ICARE Team (Integrity, Community, Accountability, Respect, and Empathy) is proud to announce the return of its annual spring celebration, Pack Fest, taking place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the Colonie Central High School campus. An opening Ceremony will take place from 10-11 a.m in the CCHS Auditorium, with events and activities to follow.

This year, proceeds from Pack Fest will benefit the Albany Housing Coalition. This vital nonprofit provides housing assistance and essential support services for homeless veterans and those at risk of losing their homes throughout the Capital Region. This school year, each activity sponsored by the ICARE team has directly benefited the Albany Housing Coalition. This includes the ICARE team’s Mac & Chili Cook-Off, Holiday Lights, Homeless Support Bag collection and more.

“Pack Fest is more than an event our students organize; it’s something they build as a celebration of the Colonie community,” says CCHS Associate Principal Tess McCarthy. “ICARE students work hard to turn our community values into a tangible experience of service, community, and leadership.”

Event Highlights

Pack Fest 2026 will feature a wide range of interactive attractions and activities designed for all ages, including:

• STEAM Expo & Reptile Exhibit – Hands-on science demonstrations and engaging educational displays alongside live reptile encounters
• Touch-a-Truck Experience – A family favorite offering close-up access to emergency, utility, and specialty vehicles
• Kickball Tournament – Teams of students, staff, and community members bring energy and friendly competition to the field
• Vendor Fair & Food Trucks – A curated selection of local businesses, artisans, and food vendors
• Free Lawn Games & Activities – Classic outdoor games and casual fun for children and families

Admission to Pack Fest is free and it is open to the public. While entry is complimentary, select activities will require small fees, with proceeds benefiting both the Albany Housing Coalition and Colonie Central High School student executive clubs. 

For our students, event tickets will be distributed at the elementary and middle schools. A ticket can be used to cover the fee for any one of the paid activities. Additionally, anyone who attends the Opening Ceremony will receive a ticket. The paid experiences include: Pie-A-Principal, dunk tank, rock climbing wall, and relay/skill games where students can earn prizes.

This event is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors, including Presenting Sponsor Welenta & Co. Agency, Inc., along with Concord Pools, Dark Horse Insurance, Iron Tree Financial, First New York Federal Credit Union, Blessings Tavern, and many others.

Community members should note that Hackett Avenue will be closed to through traffic from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. on May 16.