With today marking the first day of Homecoming weekend, the Alumni office is continuing with their tradition of music on the lawn. Jam Fest, a popular attraction for music lovers, will be held tonight at 6 p.m. at Hunter Welcome Center’s east lawn. The concert is free of charge and will feature ten student bands and artists.

Jama Cadle, assistant director of alumni relations, said Jam Fest is focused on the university’s community, as opposed to just alumni and family.

“I think in years past the students have felt like this weekend was mainly for alumni, but it’s really for the ACU community,” she said. “Jam Fest provides an opportunity for students to come together. Also, it’s great for prospective students, if they’re on campus, and also families to see the students that are performing.”

This year’s lineup includes Beautiful Midnight, Pierce Hardin, Sunset at Ivry, Will Morgan, Bee Butler, 2218 Cedar Crest, Colton Owsley, The Holly Birds, Clayton Stewart and M.A. Double.

Matt Preston, sophomore undeclared major from Abilene and the front man making up M.A. Double, is returning to take the stage at Jam Fest after performing in last year’s Post Break Jam.

Preston hopes to share his message of “the Lord and what he has done in my life” through rap and hip-hop.

“This message is beneficial [for students] because of the way it can be presented,” Preston said. “In a rap song, specifically, it’s more of a message. It’s not like a traditional worship song where it’s saying the same basic words. The message can be presented in a way that is relevant to our culture today but at the same time has a completely different message than something you would hear on a regular rap song.”

Preston said Jam Fest is a great opportunity for student artists.

“There’s going to be a good amount of people who are usually pretty open minded to music in general,” he said. “The students that are coming are interested in hearing what other students have to offer as far as musical talent. The amount of people will be more than what most of us artists get at some random show that we would do on our own.”

Immediately following the concert will be a firework show starting at 9 p.m.