Fredericton, NB – The City of Fredericton will roll out the red carpet on Thursday, September 4, 2008 to herald the annual return of students to the University of New Brunswick, St. Thomas University and the city’s community colleges.

Hosted by the City of Fredericton in partnership with Downtown Fredericton Inc., and the University of New Brunswick and St. Thomas University, the 11th annual Freddy Beach Welcome Barbecue will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Officers Square. A large tent will be set up in the Square in the event of inclement weather.

“It’s our way of saying how much we appreciate having post-secondary students from our universities and colleges as part of our community,” said Mayor Brad Woodside. “We especially want those who are new to our city to know that this is a special place and we want them to feel at home here.”

Entertainment at the Square will include one of Fredericton’s popular bands, the one and only ‘Chillin’ Room.’  There will also be airbrush tattoo artists and of course, free hamburgers and hot dogs served up by the Knights of Columbus.

Booths will be set up through the Square by Downtown Fredericton, the Small Craft Aquatic Centre, the City's Green Matters committee, and others to provide information to students about their products and services. City Transit buses will be on hand to transport students back to their campus following the festivities.

The students will march to Officers Square where they will be piped down a red carpet and greeted by Mayor Woodside, members of City Council and other public and academic officials.

“This fun night gives students and members of the community a chance to meet and get to know each other, said Mayor Woodside. The public is welcome to come out and make the ‘Freddy Beach Welcome Barbeque’ a night to remember.”

Last year, about 2,000 students and residents attended the party. The event has become an important part of Orientation Week activities, which take place annually on the UNB and STU campus.  Queen Street, between Carleton and Regent streets, will be closed to traffic from 5:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

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Media Contact:  John White, Communications, City of Fredericton, 506-460-2227.