Students ready for CALA-Bash 2026

Zoe Micheal at CALA-Bash 2025. (Panther photo by Jayla Odom)

Students and faculty are preparing for the annual Claflin Arts and Letters Bash, also known as CALA-Bash, from April 13-17 on campus.

The weeklong event, organized through the Department of Art, will feature a variety of activities including student events and performances showcasing different arts, film showcases, live entertainment, and vendors being able to sell and advertise. CALA-Bash is one of the university’s most anticipated traditions, drawing students, alumni, and visitors from neighboring colleges.

Cornelius Cakley, assistant professor of art/digital design and chair of the Department of Art, is overseeing this year’s event. Organizers' main goal is to provide a safe and engaging environment for students while continuing the tradition of celebrating the arts on campus.

Students say they are looking forward to the experience.

“CALA-Bash is something everybody looks forward to because it's one of the big events where students can relax and have fun together with their friends,” said junior Tameyah Jenkins.

For some students, this will be their first time attending.

“I've never been to CALA-Bash, but from what I'm hearing around campus, it sounds like a fun spring event,” said junior transfer student Leah Richardson. “I'm excited to understand the hype.”

Students say the event provides a break from academic stress and brings positive energy to campus during the spring semester.

CALA-Bash has remained a long-standing tradition at Claflin and is often compared to spring festivals held at other historically Black colleges and universities. Organizers say student feedback continues to shape improvements each year as they work to balance entertainment with safety and organization.

As anticipation builds, CALA-Bash continues to be talked about allowing students to be brought together through shared experiences in the arts.