University of Regina students are taking the opportunity this week to put the books away, all in the spirit of Halloween. Students have the chance to celebrate the holiday by partaking in events all over campus, which are hosted by different student groups.
One of these events includes the fifth annual pumpkin carving contest, hosted by the University of Regina’s Indigenous Students’ Association.
The association donates the pumpkins and materials, and welcomes everyone to participate. Association president Jodie Woodward views the contest as a great opportunity not only for students, but for the association as well.
“This is actually one of our events that makes the Indigenous Students’ Association more visible on campus,” Woodward said.
Woodward helped organize the event for the past two years and recalls many impressive entries, such as a carving of the seven dwarfs that took top prize last year. She also said the fun Halloween competition comes at a great time for students.
“I think it’s important because it’s the middle of the semester. A lot of people are doing midterms, so it’s a nice relaxation event where you can just have some fun and get to know other people,” said Woodward.
Along with the pumpkin carving contest, there will also be a costume contest, face painting, prizes, popcorn and beverages. The event takes place on Oct. 31 from 12 noon to 4 p.m. in the Research and Innovation Centre atrium.
If pumpkin art isn’t for you, there are more Halloween festivities occurring on campus.
On Oct. 29, the Education Students’ Society is hosting a fright night movie night, showing Insidious 2 at 8 p.m., in Education 189. The ESS extends the invitation to anyone brave enough.
On Thursday, Oct. 30, the ESL program and Institut Français are cohosting a Halloween dance at 7 p.m. in the Rotonde, LI 216. The event includes a DJ, pizza, bar and prizes. Community engagement manager Frédéric Dupré said this celebration gives many international students their first experience of Halloween.
On the day of Halloween, Campion College is hosting an all-day “spooktacular” event. The college will be serving fair trade coffee and Halloween treats in the morning and there will be face painting and caramel apple decorating in the afternoon.
