This weekend, Greek life members and alumni from various fraternities and sororities returned to campus for the annual Greek Reunion. The event brings a vibrant and lively feeling to campus, with attendees eager to reconnect and celebrate.
The atmosphere on Green Street is energetic as huge crowds assemble outside the three Campustown bars — Joe’s Brewery, KAMS and The Red Lion. The bars have embraced the influx of students, offering a variety of events and specials to enhance the festivities.
All three bars opened on Thursday night to kick off the weekend. On Friday, the celebrations continued with early evening openings, drawing even larger crowds.
On Saturday, Joe’s and KAMS held noon to 4 p.m. block parties. KAMS featured a water slide, while Joe’s hosted a foam party.
Meanwhile, The Red Lion is starting happy hours at 3 p.m., including a putt-putt competition where participants who make the “long-putt” are entered into a drawing for a four-day Lollapalooza pass, according to the bar’s Instagram.
Get The Daily Illini in your inbox!
Multiple attendees spoke to The DI about their excitement during the weekend.
Maddie Beck, junior in Liberal Arts & Sciences and member of the Phi Sigma Sigma sorority at the University, said she enjoys being able to spend time with friends without the stress of classes.
Another member of Phi Sig, Jess, junior in LAS, echoed Beck’s sentiments.
“I’m enjoying my break from being home and getting to see all of my friends,” Jess said.
During the festivities, the University steps up law enforcement activity to stay prepared for emergencies. When asked about safety concerns for the weekend, attendees said they felt as safe as usual.
“I’m already living here over the summer,” Beck said. “I don’t feel that it’s less safe to be here than during the school year.”
Alice McFadden, junior in Social Work and member of Phi Sig, responded similarly.
“I think being here now is the exact same as being here during the school year,” McFadden said.
As the Greek Reunion weekend passes, it remains a popular tradition among the University’s Greek life community. Attendees are reuniting and celebrating, with the bars’ extended hours and special events contributing to the lively atmosphere.