Beginning at Florida college campuses in 2006 the “World’s Largest Paint Party” began. On April 11 and 12 it came to Penn State’s campus. Dayglow, the latest college phenomenon, consists of a live concert with DJs, Cirque Du Soleil-type acts, and the famous “Paint Blasts.”
Here’s a recap of my experience:
6:30 p.m. Packing the essentials
White and neon head-to-toe? Check. Plastic bags? Check. Wipes? Check. Cash for paint? Check. Disposable camera? Check. Glow sticks? Check.
7:30 p.m. Entering the Bryce Jordan Center
The floor of the BJC had been transformed into a tarp-covered, sea of white and neon clothing and strobe lights. DJ Nammo set the mood followed by DJ David Solano, keeping everyone engrossed in the music, while waiting the highly anticipated paint.
8:30 p.m. Starting the countdown
Finally, the MC started the Dayglow countdown, but 59:59:00. Another hour?! Disappointed by the lack of paint, we all fist pumped our way through the hour awaiting the initial Paint Blast.
9:30 p.m. Paint Blast
DJ Chuckie took the stage as the final seconds ticked away the “devil” appeared on stage along with the dancers, all equipped with super-soaker type machines and blasted the audience with neon paint.
But, the paint did not reach completely to the back of the audience, so for those who did not get completely painted, or just wanted to soak themselves and fellow Dayglowers with paint, it was available for purchase, so everyone was able to participate.
10:30 p.m. Neon Paint
By this time I was completely drenched in neon paint, the music was still ear-piercingly loud and various circus-type acts performed on stage. Being covered in paint with loud music playing and strobe lights flashing was definitely a new experience.
11:30 p.m. Winding down
I finally arrived home, completely paint covered. Luckily, the paint washed off effortlessly. Although even if it didn’t, it would have been worth going to class the next morning paint-stained just to experience something as unique as Dayglow.