UW-Parkside makes history with Fall Fest events

By Samantha Savaglio

Imagine walking up to UW-Parkside and being greeted by fire breathers, face painters, and magicians; all while enjoying the beauty of our campus as it reflects off of the 200-foot Ferris Wheel that seems to lift people so close to the sky they could touch the clouds as if they were cotton candy. Welcome to Fall Fest!

The annual fall festivities take place Oct. 1-6. This year's theme, "Circus Spectacular," features magic, puppets, sword swallowing, and a series of solo performers. Don't forget the fabulous carnival food--snow cones, cotton candy, floats, and mini donuts will be available. Plus, you can take part `in the messy pie eating contest! A complete list of Fall Fest events is on the university web site.

Fall Fest is the equivalent of homecoming--a week packed with fun activities the build students' school spirit.

"There is always something to celebrate," says Julie Evans, Student Activities' marketing coordinator, and this event "celebrates students and the accomplishments they've made thus far in the school year." 

Now that they have had a chance to settle in and get familiar with the campus community, Evans added, this event will help them meet new people while experiencing new and exciting activities.

Speaking of "new," the week's finale features UW-Parkside's first ever carnival! The Student Center parking lot is transformed into FUNLAND! Get your face painted, play games to win prizes, and ride the Ferris Wheel! And did we mention it's all free?!

Fall Fest is also proud to host an LGBTQ violence prevention training session during the week. Evans said because Fall Fest draws in so much interest, they wanted to utilize promotions to highlight this very important issue that has, "become more prevalent among universities in the past year." 

Fall Fest coincides with Residence Life's "Lil' Sibs" weekend. Students will bring their siblings to campus to take part in activities and see just what college life is all about.

"Being a student is a full-time job, and it is stressful. We want to provide them with outlets to take a break and relieve some of that stress," Evans stated.

The carnival theme was voted on by the Student Activities department, who we owe a huge "thank-you" to for all the time and energy they invested. They worked closely with several departments to sponsor the event, including the Alumni Association, which donated the money for glow-in-the-dark Fall Fest t-shirts.

Evans said students have expressed a desire to have a carnival on campus for some time and that this year they are finally able to do so.

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ABOUT THIS STORY:

Story Status: Archived
Publish date: 9/23/2012

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