Picnic Day kicks off peacefully with extra security in Davis after 2025 shooting
The UC Davis Marching Band’s “Yoo-hoo” chant echoed on campus Saturday, kicking off the 112th Picnic Day — the annual open-house celebration at the Yolo County campus.
Picnic Day drew national attention last year after shots were fired at nearby Community Park, wounding three people.
Those attending Picnic Day are reminded of last year’s shooting, including Carmichael resident Cathy Les, whose husband is a graduate of UC Davis.
“I’m not feeling nervous, but I’m aware of it,” Les said. “Hopefully nothing happens.”
The alleged shooter, Joseph Davis, was sentenced earlier this week in federal court to two years and six months in prison for being a convicted felon in possession of a gun. He still faces state criminal charges in Yolo Superior Court in connection with last year’s shooting.
Community Park was quiet early Saturday afternoon, as a child played with a plastic baseball bat and bicyclists passed through. A portion of the park containing construction equipment was fenced off.
The city of Davis implemented a “Safety Enhancement Zone” through 6 a.m. Sunday, increasing violations in those areas, according to the 2026 Picnic Day schedule of events. For example, a general noise citation could result in a fee of $560.
Safety zones are near Walnut Park, Slide Hill Park and north of campus to Covell Boulevard, according to the schedule.
“We have an increased emphasis on safety this year, so lets commit to #SafeCelebrations, and pledge to make today a safer, more enjoyable experience for everyone,” Chancellor Gary May said during his opening remarks.
Picnic Day is a critical day for the Davis Police Department, according to Lt. John Evans, and the number of officers in the city is doubled compared to the typical day.
“Picnic Day is a day that every single Davis PD officer works,” Evans said. “It truly is an ‘all hands on deck’ day for us.”
Davis police are also working with other agencies, according to Evans, including, but not limited to, the Yolo County Sheriff’s Office, Woodland Police Department, Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, Roseville Police Department and Folsom Police Department.
As of 11 a.m. Saturday, Evans said there were no active threats.
“There is always concern for public safety when you have tens of thousands of people gathering,” Evans said. “Especially when you consider that many of these gatherings feature a large consumption of alcohol.”
What’s going on at Picnic Day?
While safety was top on mind, attendees cheered as the parade departed from Wickson Hall. The parade is a favorite to many, including Les, with nearly 70 entries.
The student-organized event is aimed to bring students, alumni and the Davis community together, all while showcasing what the university has to offer.
“Some of you might be visiting Davis for the first time, others might be returning to a place filled with memories” UC Davis senior and Picnic Day Chair Trinh Vo said. “No matter where your journey begins, today we all share the same destination, home.”
Picnic Day has displays from student organizations and university resources, alongside entertainment like racing dachshunds and the Davis Chinese Orchestra.
Also new this year, the UC Davis spring football game was being played during Picnic Day.
This story was originally published April 18, 2026 at 1:16 PM.
