Battling cold temperatures, high winds and rain, students came out in droves and painted the outskirts of Kent State green for the annual Fake Patty’s Day celebration.
Countless students filled frat row as parties began, many wearing festive outfits and costumes. Numerous students gathered around University Drive to view a “Ginger Run” hosted by Barstool, while others went through East Main Street for stands serving tater tots and hot dogs.
Some students, like Lauren Katona, a junior criminology and justice studies major, enjoyed the weather. She said it made the day feel even better.
“It’s more fun to drink when it’s raining,” Katona said. “I’m really enjoying the hot dogs they’re serving.”
Other students weren’t so optimistic about the weather conditions. Senior nursing major Ashley Hughes planned on attending as many parties as possible, but said the weather was “annoying.”
Despite this, she said it wouldn’t stop her from having fun and hanging out with friends.
“We’re going to get through it,” Hughes said. “It’s better than nothing.”
Various students planned ahead of time to deal with the bad weather. Blake Rainey, a junior political science major, said he wore extra layers because he didn’t want the weather to ruin his day.
“The weather’s not really bothering me,” Rainey said. “I’m having a lot of fun.”
Cheyenne Apgar, a junior criminology and justice studies major, also wore multiple layers to account for the weather. She traveled to Tau Kappa Epsilon and Sigma Phi Epsilon and planned on attending several other frat parties as well.
Apgar took note of the heavy police presence, but said the vibe was great.
For many students, this isn’t their first Fake Patty’s Day, and they have fond memories from last year, which also had rainy and cold weather. One of those students was Brandon Moses, a junior general business student who said he wasn’t a stranger to partying in poor conditions.
“You just have to tap in,” he said. “It’s a good time, it’s Fake Patty’s, and we’re all having fun.”
Junior nursing major Taylor Yaksic also said this wasn’t her first Fake Patty’s Day, and said she was going to enjoy the day no matter what. She added that she loves how the university comes together to celebrate the holiday.
“It’s very exciting,” she said. “I’m just dancing it up.”
John Engoglia is a beat reporter. Contact him at [email protected].
