HallOUween without a doubt is the most decoratively-celebrated holiday in Athens, Ohio. Whether you still go here, are an alumn, townie or rando, the festivities here are much loved. That being said, there’s always tons of people who attend HallOUween each year, and everything from the block party to house gatherings is bound to get a little crazy. In fact danger is at high risk, so we’ve created a list of unwritten safe-tips for you to stay out of trouble.
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1. Bring flats
Photo from Blue High Heels
Yes, we know and appreciate those who can walk in heels comfortably! But it is important to remember that you will be walking between the bricks as you make your way down Court Street. Because you’ll be walking on such a bumpy surface, the chances of you hurting your ankles is high if you’ve got heels on. Be sure to find a pair of heels that works with your costume to avoid injury.
2. Follow a loose plan
Photo from topbet.eu
It’s easy to get stuck on HallOUween at one place, and end up missing out on important festivities including the block party and seeing ‘those friends’ you were going to see. To avoid this, come up with a plan for you and your friends to follow for that night. You’ll be more likely to stick to it, and enjoy the night to its fullest.
3. Stick like a clique
Photo from thecliquethings.tumblr.com
On that note, don’t lose track of your friends, because it’s important to use the buddy system at all times! If you’re with them the whole time, outsiders are less likely to mess with you. If you and your friends seem too good to join, then you’ll all be hard to beat.
4. You gotta know people
Photo from Digital Trends
Many of us invite friends of friends to pregames, but not every one of these people is guaranteed a safe pal. So make sure you at least know each person that you’ll come in contact with before festing. It’ll be less awkward and more comfortable on all levels, trust us!
5. Sip slowly
Photo from Spirited Gifts
What’s the point of dressing up if you’re just going to get hammered before you even make it out? Make sure that any pre-gaming is done slow and steady, because the real time to go hard or home is when you’re actually at a bar or elsewhere. It’s the best way to make the most of the night!
6. BYOB correctly
Photo from thesun.co.uk
Yup, the same rules apply to HallOUween as fests even though you’ll be dressed as a different person. Without sounding like your mom, it’s good to give what they taught you in Alcohol EDU a thought or two. Remember, no open containers and mind all other rules. Trust us, you won’t regret doing it!
7. Take cash out the night before
Photo from Paxton Bookkeeping
Many bars in town are notorious for their credit card minimums, and if you don’t have cash then you don’t get served. Simple as that, especially on HallOUween! Considering that Chase Bank and Ohio University Credit Union will have lines, it’s going to be hard to turn back and take out cash. On that note, make sure you have some ching ching with you ahead of time!
8. One-hundred percent battery is key
Photo from techregar.com
With such poor service, it’ll be hard enough to make a call, let alone keep your battery full. Charge it up before leaving, just in case you need a last resort for an emergency. You’ll be so glad you did!
9. Be intuitive
Photo from Shirley Swift Wilkinson
If something feels wrong, then it probably is wrong. Simple as that, and if you aren’t comfortable then it’s time to say no to something. Grab a friend and leave a party that’s too awkward to handle, and run from any other poor-feeling situation.
10. Never accept a drink
Photo from The American Genius
It’s very important for ladies to remember that people put stuff in drinks all the time, and even more so on busy weekends. This weekend is one you’ll wanna tell you grandchildren about, not one you’ll wanna feel sad about.
GIF from Giphy
Bottom line collegiettes, make sure you follow the laws and remember to have a killer time with whatever you have planned. Happy HallOUween!!