Lights, Camera, Rockets! Songfest Returns to Savage Arena on March 28

March 23, 2026 | News, UToday, Alumni, Student Affairs
By Calvin Sweeney



The University of Toledo’s second-oldest tradition returns to Savage Arena on Saturday, March 28, with student organizations coming together onstage to raise proceeds for the Ovarian Cancer Connection nonprofit.

Co-hosted by Blue Key Honor Society and Mortar Board National Senior Honor Society, the 89th annual Songfest will blend school spirit with service, creating a night where creativity meets cause and where the impact reaches well beyond the final performance.

Kappa Delta Rho fraternity performs during Saturday’s Songfest 2025 Battle of the Bands at Savage Arena. The group won first place in the men’s category for their “Golden Nights” performance.

Songfest, UToledo’s second-oldest tradition, returns to Savage Arena on Saturday, with student organizations coming together onstage to raise proceeds for the Ovarian Cancer Connection nonprofit.

This year’s theme, “Lights, Camera, Rockets,” will spotlight classic film songs, with the student groups reimagining these iconic songs from cinema as high-energy routines.

“Songfest is one of the most meaningful traditions at The University of Toledo and brings organizations together through creativity, teamwork and philanthropy,” said Ashton Widenhoefer, an emcee representing Mortar Board National Senior Honor Society. “The dedication and passion students put into every performance help support the Ovarian Cancer Connection, which makes our impact extend far beyond the stage.”

Based in Toledo, the Ovarian Cancer Connection is a nonprofit that provides awareness, education and support to individuals affected by ovarian and gynecological cancers across Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan. Funds raised through Songfest directly support local patients and their families.

“As someone who loves UToledo history, this event is truly special to me,” said Jaden Bollinger, an emcee representing Blue Key Honor Society. “Songfest is in its 89th year, and it’s incredible to see how it has grown into such a campus mainstay. Teams spend months preparing for just a few minutes on stage, and it shows. The performances will take your breath away and the energy inside Savage Arena is unmatched.”

Songfest donations to Ovarian Cancer Connection can be made through the event’s SignUp Genius webpage.