East Tennessee State University will light up the night sky Friday, Sept. 25, with “Bucs Under the Stars,” a free, public event featuring a spectacular drone light show as part of ETSU’s America 250 celebration.

The event is part of ETSU Family Weekend and will take place on University Commons.  Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. with music, games and activities for families, students and community members, along with food trucks offering a variety of food for purchase. The evening will culminate at 8:30 p.m. with the drone light show featuring ETSU pride and patriotic imagery celebrating the country’s landmark anniversary.

The drone show is part of ETSU’s yearlong America 250 celebration, which commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence through educational programs, exhibitions, community events and experiences that encourage reflection, civic engagement and connection.

“'Bucs Under the Stars’ brings together the spirit of ETSU, the beauty of our Appalachian home and the patriotic spirit of America 250 for a truly special evening,” said Joy Fulkerson, ETSU's director of Leadership and Civic Engagement. “We’re excited to invite our campus community, families and neighbors throughout the region to join us.”

Guests are encouraged to attend “Bucs Under the Stars” with friends and family, bring a blanket or lawn chair and find a spot on University Commons to enjoy the evening and the drone show finale.

Family Weekend activities will take place Sept. 25-27, including ETSU football’s home game matchup against Western Carolina University on Saturday, Sept. 26, at 3:30 p.m. On Thursday, Sept. 24, ETSU will partner with the City of Johnson City, Stars & Stripes Cinemas and Downtown Johnson City for a free showing of “Top Gun” at King Commons Park as part of the community’s America 250 celebration. The event begins at 6 p.m. with games, activities and giveaways, followed by the movie at approximately 7:30 p.m.

For more information about ETSU’s Family Weekend and registration for weekend activities, visit the Family Weekend webpage.