Students traded textbooks for cowboy boots at the Andrews University Student Association’s (AUSA) Barn Party on Sunday, Nov. 2. The event was held at Stover’s Farms, whose big barn and open fields were helpful in creating the event’s cowboy ambiance. The night was filled with music, games and plenty of southern charm, complete with food trucks, live bands and the fan favorite mechanical bull.
As students arrived, the open field was lit up with string lights, and the bonfire set the cozy mood. Throughout the night, marshmallows were provided to be roasted over the open fire and make delicious s'mores. Food trucks from The India Garden and La Michoacana provided meals throughout the night. From fluffy naan and warm curries to fresh ingredients on crispy tacos, there was something for everyone to enjoy. As the temperature dropped, the steaming hot chocolate warmed everyone up between songs and dances. Friends gathered on hay bales, blankets and picnic tables, enjoying their food and each other's company.
The AU dance team, Faith Over Fear, kicked things off with a special performance that earned loud applause and cheers from the crowd. They then led out in teaching the crowd line dances that got everyone moving. These dances were spread out throughout the night, and each time, the crowd rushed to the dance floor to participate in the fun. “I enjoy line dancing,” said freshman Madison Benjamin. “Everyone [comes] together and [embraces] cultural music, and to be able to come together as a community and a school is just beautiful!”
The entertainment didn't stop there. Two live bands performed throughout the night, singing country tunes like “Take Me Home, Country Roads” and festive Christmas favorites like “Jingle Bell Rock.” Between sets, students had a chance to show off their own musical talent during open karaoke. The stage saw a little bit of everything from Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You” to Sia’s “Snowman.” The crowd laughed and cheered with the singers as everyone sang the lyrics together.
No barn party would be complete without a little friendly competition. There were several games like Dare Pong and Connect 4, in addition to the mechanical bull. Everyone tried to see how long they could stay on the bull, and it was pretty difficult to stay on. Students lined up to test their balance and bravery while friends gathered around to cheer them on. The sight of people flying off the bull became a highlight during the event. “The bull was one of my favorite activities,” said freshman Kará Nangle. “It was an exciting first-time experience.”
What made the event truly special, however, was the sense of community it brought. Whether doing “Cotton Eye Joe” on the dance floor, or clutching a cup of warm cocoa next to a friend under the string lights, students came together to wind down, laugh and just get a break from work. “It was fun to let loose and forget about classes for a little bit,” said Naomi Kingston, a freshman nursing major. As the night wound down and the last song played, students lingered to snap photos and say goodbye to new friends.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.