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While bars have been a preference for UMass students in the past, are the “beer pong” tables turning? With the new strictly enforced rules surrounding all of the uptown bars, you might just be trading in The Pub for the keg.
Uptown Blues
No matter what year you are, you’ve probably spent some weekend nights uptown. Whether dancing the night away at Monkey, slinging leprechaun shots at McMurphy’s or getting your Glee on with karaoke at Stacker’s, it’s safe to say most UMass ladies have, or will become, familiar with the bars during their time in Amherst. However, Amherst’s once lax bar scene is no more with the introduction of ID scanners in all bars. Say goodbye to the days of presenting your fake with a knot in your stomach. These scanners have the ability to detect a completely falsified ID and to alert the bouncers if you have an old duplicate license. With Amherst bars (and even Monkey?!) cracking down, what is there to do for underagers?
Frat Parties
You may be thinking “I’m SO over that,” but frat parties are even fun for the privileged 21-year-olds. Very different to the atmosphere of a bar, frat parties are a great place to “let loose.” With no bouncers around, anything goes in the sea of students.
The large house, as opposed to the small bar, gives party-goers the freedom to move about and switch up the scenery. Â Whether you love to hit the dance floor, play drinking games, or just hang out with some friends, there is something for everyone.
Pros: casual dress code, open all night, save money (usually $5 for a cup or BYOB), all of your friends can get in….girlfriends that is
House Parties
Chances are if you are showing up to a house party, you, or someone in your group,  know the people living there. What’s better than putting aside your academic responsibilities for the night to hang out with your friends?
At the bars, you tend to see the same people over again without becoming more then acquaintances. House parties are like being at The Pub on a night when only your friends can go.
Pros: mostly your friends, save money!!!, since it’s your friend you can control the music, party in the place you crash
Still craving the dance scene?
Whether the big 2-1 is weeks, months, or years away, fear not! There is plenty to do at UMass on the weekends. Keep your ears open for invites from friends and fraternities, and spread the word.