Now that autumn is in full swing, students can participate in a number of popular University events such as tailgating, visiting Curtis Orchard and Homecoming. Fall also marks the beginning of another tradition many students look forward to: barn-dance season.

“Barn dance is literally the greatest event ever and such a great way to celebrate fall,” said Kristen Danowski, senior in Education and philanthropy chair of RSO October Lovers. “Anyone who hasn’t gone to one … I highly encourage it. Everybody is in such a good mood. I love hanging out in the barn because when do you ever get to really do that?”

With so many RSOs and Greek organizations hosting their own barn dances, there are many to choose from. For students who have never heard of a barn dance, there are a few basic things to know.

Barn dance is exactly what it sounds like: a party at a barn. Every year, RSOs rent a barn off campus and host a party for their members with a country-side atmosphere.

Attendees can dance to country music or take photos around the barn while a bonfire and hayrides await outside. Some organizations bring snacks and refreshments, and everything, including transportation to the dance, is included in the ticket price for the event.

“Barn dance allows us to get away from the hectic campus life and be in the country setting that surrounds the University,” said Danielle Schuck, vice president of public relations for the Panhellenic Council. “It’s a nice time to spend with friends while listening to some country music.”

One of the well-known things about barn dances is that the attendees get the chance to dress up like cowboys and cowgirls, which can make for great photo opportunities.

Students can easily spot barn-dance attendees on campus by their flannel shirts and brown boots. 

Schuck said it is completely up to the individual what to wear, but many people choose to wear plaid shirts to convey the country theme. 

“I would say a flannel or plaid shirt is a must-have,” Danowski said.

“Some people get really creative and wear overalls or cute country dresses. You’ll see guys and girls sporting bandanas and cowboy hats as well as cowboy boots. After four years, I finally have my first pair to break in this barn-dance season.” 

With so many dances going on during the fall, it can be hard for students to hear about them. Other student may be unable to attend because some organizations choose not to host one or may limit their guest list to the members in the organization and their dates.

Schuck said that when a Panhellenic or Interfraternity chapter has a barn dance, their members are allowed to bring a date, although it is not required.

“There is limited capacity at the barn, but it is up to the organization on how to distribute the space,” she said.

Other organizations are more open about who gets to attend their event. Danowski said anybody is welcome to the October Lovers barn dance. 

“Anyone can attend our barn dance,” said Darragh McDermott, senior in LAS and president of October Lovers. “Members will find out through a Facebook event and emails from us.”

Tickets for the October Lovers dance, as well as other events, go on sale weeks before the scheduled date. Because tickets go quickly, those interested in attending are usually encouraged to purchase them early.

Melissa can be reached at [email protected].