Books closed and party bands on! On Thursday 3 October, the Thomas More college organised the first All for More Festival on the Grote Markt in Mechelen. A party for students and staff alike, with solid beats by DJ Mark With a K and MC Chucky, among others, who kicked off the 2024-2025 academic year with a bang.
From 4pm onwards, more than 2,500 revellers streamed into the historic square with a genuine procession. What once started as Student Lift-Off, this year grew into a new and vibrant event especially for the Thomas More community.
Lieselotte Heymans, Head of Student Services, stressed the importance of such a happy start:“A party at the beginning of the academic year is the way to get to know each other better and secretly postpone studying for another day.”
Local Partners Central
The organisers joined forces with local partners. Circus studio Circolito accompanied a colourful parade, while De Planeet provided a giant bouncy castle. For those who got hungry, Kingslize Pizza and free fries were on hand. Even the city council, featuring Kristof Calvo and Rina Rabau, was enthusiastic about the event.
“We are happy to welcome the Thomas More students to the Grote Markt, in the heart of our city,” Kristof Calvo said. “It will give them an immediate taste of what Mechelen has to offer, with a view of the iconic St Rombouts tower.”
Beats, Bites and Fries
Musically, there was a lot on the programme. Besides Mark With a K & MC Chucky, partygoers could enjoy the beats of Voltage, Laura Govaerts, and Sven & Clé. The party was completed with free chips and pizza between 5pm and 8pm.
More than Music
Besides music and snacks, the festival was all about connection. Students tested their skills at various stalls in a playful competition between courses. The large LED screen next to the stage kept track of the intermediate rankings, and the winning unit went home with the coveted All for More challenge cup, a unique work of art designed by the Interior, Design & Architecture programme .
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With a fantastic first edition full of beats, bites and fun activities, the tone has been set for a successful academic year. Don’t miss a short video impression including interviews soon. Check out my YouTube channel Traveltopper today !
Text and photos Verschueren Eddy for Mechelen at its Best and Radio Opsinjoor