UPDATE: The inaugural Monster Mash Beaver Bash at Bemidji State University drew over 300 trick-or-treaters last night, transforming the John Glas Fieldhouse into a hub of Halloween excitement. Held on October 31, 2023, the event replaced the traditional trick-or-treating at residence halls, offering a centralized location for families to enjoy Halloween festivities safely.
Officials confirmed that the event, organized by BSU Housing and Residential Life, aimed to simplify access for families in chilly weather. Jonathan Dietz, director of housing and residential life, expressed enthusiasm about the turnout, noting that families started arriving up to 30 minutes early. “The energy level has been really high,” Dietz stated. “I’d say this has been a large success.”
The response was overwhelming, with more than 300 children already greeting attendees at the entrance within the first 30 minutes of the event. Students and resident assistants, Shelby Thyssen and Emma Ostrowski, reported the excitement, emphasizing the importance of student engagement in making the event a hit. “It’s neat to have this space so jam-packed with a lot of action and different things going on,” Dietz added.
Attendees enjoyed a variety of Halloween-themed activities, including pumpkin tic-tac-toe, giant Jenga, and Connect Four, all while taking refuge from the rain. The event featured around a dozen student organizations, who provided games and delicious treats. Notably, Bucky the Beaver made a special appearance, delighting participants with photo opportunities.
Dietz highlighted the significant role of residential students in the event’s success. “About 90% of the people helping tonight are non-staff,” he noted. Various clubs, including the Communications Honor Society, Wildlife Society, and International Student Organization, contributed to the festive atmosphere.
The Monster Mash Beaver Bash not only provided a safe environment for trick-or-treating but also fostered community spirit among students and families. “I very much appreciate all the help that I’ve gotten,” Dietz remarked. “It’s so fun to see our student community come out and really engage with everyone.”
As families left the event, the buzz of excitement lingered, marking a successful new tradition for Bemidji State University. With such a strong turnout, organizers are already looking ahead to next year’s festivities, promising even more fun and community engagement.
Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving story as Bemidji State continues to celebrate student involvement and community connection.
