"Eaglepalooza" is a downtown music fest that was designed to welcome students from the University of Southern Mississippi into Hattiesburg's downtown area.    Eaglepalooza began in 2004 and has become an annual event.  

Sponsored by the university's Student Government Association, Eaglepalooza traditionally draws crowds of up to 10,000 students who are treated to a free concert by nationally known acts.

USM's current SGA President, Jonathan Krebs, was able to secure $35,000 in sponsor contributions to fund the 2nd Annual Eaglepalooza in 2005.    The SGA partnered with several local agencies to plan and coordinate the event, including its parent organization, the University of Southern Mississippi, the Historic Hattiesburg Downtown Association, the City Council, the Police Department and the City of Hattiesburg.

Also enlisted were a local promoter and a security company.  A local  music equipment company, Millenium Music, designed the stage and provided the equipment and sound checks prior to the event.

A crowd of around 10,000 students braved the cool temperatures to enjoy the outdoor concert, which was held on the streets of historic downtown Hattiesburg, and most stayed until the concert ended at midnight.    The event was a huge success and the students are looking forward to next year's event!