This time each year, Greeks look forward to an event somewhat reminiscent of prom: semi-formals. Sororities and fraternities host these often glamorous events in which they dress to impress or plan creative themes.

The majority of semi-formals are held at off-campus bars such as Soma, High Dive or C-Street; however, there are also houses that choose to keep it on campus, such as at The Clybourne or Joe’s Brewery.

While the typical semi-formal includes a date, dress and drinks, some fraternities and sororities let their ingenuity dictate the details.

Ann Symonanis, sophomore in LAS and active member of Alpha Phi, recalled her experience at the organization’s semi-formal last year.

“We have Cardiac Arrest, which is where you are handcuffed to your date. It was started last year and is at Joe’s, and it’s pretty fun,” Symonanis said.

She added that the idea itself stems from their philanthropy event “King of Hearts.” Although Symonanis said many of the handcuffs broke by the end of the evening, it still brought a new sense of flair to the idea of semi-formal.

Semi-formals are said to be a good time, whether they are themed or not.

Irem Karacal, sophomore in LAS and active member of Kappa Kappa Gamma said: “Our semiformal doesn’t have a theme and it’s usually at an off-campus venue that we get bussed to for a date function. They’re tons of fun and the whole house goes.”

Not only does semi-formal happen in the winter, but many Greeks are fortunate to experience the event twice — one in the spring and one in the fall. However, some tend to opt for a different route in replacement of their semi-formal.

“In the spring we have a second barn dance instead of a semi-formal,” said Moira Gilroy, sophomore in DGS and active member of Alpha Phi.

Kappa Kappa Gamma, however, chooses to keep it traditional, Karcal said.

“We have one semi-formal every semester and usually do a barn dance in the spring rather than a formal, but that is up to the senior’s vote,” she said.

Christen can be reached at [email protected].