Some places stay with you long after you leave. For me, Southwestern College is one of them. I enrolled at SWC right out of Hilltop High School and earned my associate’s degree there in 1996 before transferring to the Advertising Arts College. I’ll be honest, it took me six years to finish my four-year degree, but it all started on that campus off Otay Lakes Road.
When I look at Southwestern College today, I barely recognize it. There are new buildings, new programs and a whole new energy. The one thing that hasn’t changed is the pride. I’m still a Jaguar, and I always will be.
So when I found out Southwestern College is throwing a party to celebrate 65 years, I had to share it with all of you.
The first-ever Jaguar Spectacular takes over the Chula Vista campus at 900 Otay Lakes Road on Saturday, November 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It’s part carnival, part community get-together and part fundraiser, and the money raised goes back to supporting Southwestern College students.
Here’s the quick version:
- Free admission, free parking, and free stage performances
- Carnival games, rides and a Kids Zone
- Student performances and a Program Expo
- Popcorn, cotton candy, food and a few surprises
- Jaguar Bucks for rides, games and attractions, and you save when you buy ahead
65 Years of Jaguars in the South Bay
Since 1961, Southwestern College has been where a lot of us in the South Bay got our start. Some people come straight out of high school like I did, some come back years later to change careers, and some take one class just because they’re curious. Whatever brought you here, SWC likely played a role in where you ended up.
Sixty-five years is a big milestone, and this is the first time the college has thrown a celebration quite like this one. That alone makes it worth showing up for.
What to Expect at the Jaguar Spectacular
The college is blending old-school carnival and harvest festival vibes, with something for every age. This is one event I’m really looking forward to, and I can’t wait to be out there.
Student Performances and the Program Expo
This is where the students take the spotlight. Expect on-stage performances throughout the day, plus a Program Expo where you can see what Southwestern offers today. If it’s been a while since you’ve been on campus, or you have a teenager starting to think about what’s next, this is an easy way to look around.
Carnival Games, Rides and a Kids Zone
Bring the kids. Rides, carnival games, and a dedicated Kids Zone will keep the little ones busy while everyone else explores. How cool will it be to see carnival rides and games at Southwestern College?
Popcorn, Cotton Candy and Surprises
It isn’t a carnival without popcorn and cotton candy, and both are on the menu along with other food. The organizers are also promising a few surprises, so we’ll have to show up to find out what those are.
How Jaguar Bucks Work
Getting in is free, and so are parking and the stage performances. To ride the carnival rides, play games, try some of the attractions or grab food, you’ll need Jaguar Bucks.
Here’s my tip: buy them now. Pre-purchasing gets you the best deal, so you save money before you even get there. Just purchase your Jaguar Bucks online and pick them up at the Will Call table when you arrive. Every Jaguar Buck you spend supports student success at Southwestern College, so you can have fun for a good cause.
RSVP to Stay in the Know
The college is also asking people to RSVP for the Jaguar Spectacular. It’s a good idea if you plan to go. You’ll get updates as the day gets closer, important event details and reminders so you don’t forget.
This is a family-friendly event, and the invitation is open to everyone. Students, staff, alumni, neighbors and friends are all welcome. If Chula Vista is your community, this celebration is for you. If you’re an alum like me, make sure you add this to your calendar now.
Celebrate 65 Years With Your Fellow Jaguars
The Jaguar Spectacular is a fun, affordable Saturday for the whole family, and it’s also a chance to give back to the school that has shaped so many people in this city. Mark your calendar for November 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., RSVP, and grab your Jaguar Bucks early.
I’ll be out there with my camera getting photos and video, and I’m looking forward to seeing everyone. If you spot me, come say hi. Fellow alumni, this one’s for us. Let’s show up and show some Jaguar pride.
For more things to do around town, check out the Chula Vista Living event calendar, and follow along on Instagram and Facebook @livingchulavista for my coverage from the Jaguar Spectacular.
