Like the past four ArkFests, revelers enjoyed live music, drank a few beers with friends and wondered why a party located off Stewart Street was named after an ark.
But unlike recent ArkFests, this year's party attendees were better served by sunscreen than an umbrella.
We couldn't have asked for better weather
said Caitlin Pier, a senior studying accounting.
ArkFest started five years ago when Ohio University alumnus and fraternity member Bryan Arkwright wanted a fest named after himself, said John DeChant, OU junior and organizer of the fest. Starting about noon, the party boasted about 2,000 attendees and lasted until 7:30 p.m.
The reason people come is because it isn't a multiple house party DeChant said. It's all in one area.
Those drinking could pay $10 for a VIP wristband or stamp, or wait in the longer line for free alcohol.
The people who pay have the right to get alcohol faster DeChant said.
Athens police did not send any officers to calm the party; they were barely aware of its presence, Lt. Anthony Fish said.
Sophomore Chris Hatfield, who studies telecommunications, said he came for the live music atmosphere.
Downplay, a Columbus-based rock band composed of OU students and alumni, opened the evening of musical acts. Lead singer Dustin Bates, a graduate student studying electrical engineering, said he enjoys playing at ArkFest because it's a little more do-it-yourself than other street fests.
It's early. You take a gamble with the weather
but it paid off
said Bates of the band's second ArkFest.
Rapper Jesty Beatz, Losanti, BedRoc and DJ Chip also performed on the small stage overlooking jumping fans.
I'm back in Athens every spring because the fests are where the party's at
and I'm where the party's at
Jesty Beatz said.
ArkFest was tame compared to previous years, said junior Melissa Albers, who has attended the party three times.
It is a lot less crowded
Albers said. There were swarms around kegs last year.
A-Town Pies and Fries owner Ed Quatkemeyer paid organizers $100 to sell slices at the party.
It looks like we'll do all right
Quatkemeyer said.
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