As daunting as the start of a new school year might be, one of the joys of new beginnings is discovering new experiences to disconnect from the stress of academics. Luckily for Ohio University students, there are plenty of fun on-campus events many look forward to each year.
From drag shows to pickle-eating competitions, there are entertainment options for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of Athens’ most popular entertainment events throughout the school year.
Starting strong, the Welcome Week Drag Show is a fan favorite, considering how quickly Baker University Center fills up. In past years, the drag show has been hosted by RuPaul Drag Race icons Nina West and Laganja Estranja. Even better, the event also features local queens. Last year Maya Bizness and OU’s very own diva, Evelyn Everything, attended the event.
This year, the Welcome Week Drag show is Aug. 30. If drama, dancing and theatrics sound appealing, then grab a couple of friends and experience the wonders of drag.
Another one of OU’s most coveted events of the year is the Homecoming parade. Students, alumni and Athens locals gather for this event every year to celebrate the city of Athens and Ohio University.
The parade always takes place during OU’s Homecoming Week and is accompanied by other festivities put on by the university. Various campus and local organizations walk during the parade; however, the main event is the Marching 110 performance featuring both alumni and current students.
This year, the Homecoming parade will happen on Oct. 18th. Be sure to get there early to have a good view of the parade and get excited to witness a little piece of Athens culture.
Occurring around the same time is Athens' very own Rocky Horror Picture Show, put on by The Lost Flamingo Theatre Company. Adored by many students, this event draws in crowds because of its captivating storyline, impressive theatrics and expressive atmosphere.
Following the classic story by Richard O’Brien, LFC puts on an immersive performance, integrating games with the audience and callbacks during the show. Fans dress up for the occasion in outfits following Rocky Horror’s seductive and queer themes.
Expect to see a long line outside of The Union Bar because of its raging popularity among students. Its alluring and gothic vibe makes it a perfect outing during the Halloween season. Sexy, extra and campy describe the energy the Rocky Horror Picture Show brings to Athens.
Although there are several exciting events during the fall semester, the fun does not stop there. During the spring semester, there are still many events worth checking out.
One of Athens’ most talent-driven events is the Athens International Film and Video Festival. Showcasing impressive works from over 50 countries, this event gives recognition to all forms of filmmaking.
For students interested in film, this is an opportunity to gain exposure in the field and meet other like-minded individuals. It is also possible for students to take part in the festival by submitting an application via the Athens Film Fest website.
The festival takes place in April and is completely free for students. The festival features several forms of film, ranging from animation, documentary, music videos and more. This event is a great way to be exposed to a variety of different film works and take in talent from all over the world.
Lastly, a rather silly event hosted in Athens every spring is Bagel Street Deli’s Picklefest. Enjoy an evening full of savory competition as pickle fanatics compete in a 10-minute pickle-eating competition.
The winner of the competition gets to create their own “bagelwich” to be put on Bagel Street Deli’s menu. They are also given the chance to donate to a charity or cause of their choosing to receive all the funds raised by the festival.
Even though the competition is light-hearted, participants still put on their game faces. Be sure to stop by Bagel Street Deli during this dill-icious event and try one of their infamous big pickles and tasty bagelwiches.
Hopefully, these upcoming events are enough to spur some excitement for the upcoming school year. Though the hustle and bustle of school can be overwhelming, at least there are some entertaining events to look forward to. For more on campus events, check out Ohio University’s event calendar.
