As the night sky dawns across downtown Kent, the city prepares for the crowds that will inevitably hit the street for parties and fun on Saturday night, the last day of Kent Halloween.
Downtown Kent’s bars will be hotspots throughout the night, and many, if not all, expect huge rushes of students looking to party the night away. Dylan Fusca, who worked the door for 157 Lounge, expected swarms of party-goers to arrive shortly before midnight.
“We’re expecting big crowds tonight,” Fusca said. “It’s the last night for people to dress up, so it’s going to be fun.”
Euro Gyro, another staple of Kent’s bar scene, put certain precautions in place for safety concerns. Anna Grund, a bartender admin assistant, said no more than 50 customers were allowed due to “strict” fire marshal rules.
“We have a door person who’s going to be not only checking IDs but also counting people,” Grund said. “All customers have to be over 21, normally we allow people under 21 to order food at any time, but tonight we’re not doing that, just to be careful.”
While the celebrations and parties were bound to get rowdy, some bars encouraged guests to act wise with their drinking habits. Charlie Wendenhof, assistant general manager of Barflyy, was hopeful the party wouldn’t be too out of control.
“It should be a fun crowd, just keep it mellow, nothing crazy,” Wendenhof said. “We’re just trying to make a fun and safe environment for everyone.”
The crowds of party-goers also gave opportunities for Kent’s small business owners. Brent Koher, a Kent State alumni, runs “Way Out Weiner,” a hot dog cart and concession stand that offers a quick meal for hungry partiers.
Koher said he expected a lot of business throughout the night.
“It’s a good vibe down here, students are a lot of fun, and the crowd’s having a good time,” Koher said.” “It’s going to be busy and crazy; if it’s anything like last Saturday, it’ll be pretty wild.”
The ongoing parties will also cause Kent’s first responders to be on high alert throughout the night. Captain Jeff Tyler of the Kent Fire Department hopes all will have a fun and safe night.
“Drinking is the main concern,” Tyler said. “We just hope they do it responsibly and safely.”
John Engoglia is a beat reporter. Contact him at [email protected].