By Alina Rezepova, Staff Writer
Have you ever wrapped yourself up like a zombie, raced to collect as much candy as possible, or competed for the title of the spookiest costume? That is how the students at Saint Leo University celebrate Halloween – with excitement, laughter, and the vibrant spirit of autumn fun across campus.
On Oct. 29, one of the most anticipated events of the semester, The Great Pumpkin Bash: Halloween Palooza, organized by Dining Services and the Campus Activities Board (CAB), took place at the Student Community Center Lakeside Patio.
That evening, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., there was an extraordinarily festive atmosphere. Laughter, music, brightly painted pumpkins, and camera flashes created a true sense of Halloween anticipation. Students, staff, and professors all gathered to enjoy the Great Pumpkin Bash, to celebrate this fall season, and to socialize with their peers.
The most fun activity was trying to collect as much candy as possible within a limited time. The students were standing in a huge queue waiting to receive the popular Halloween sweets. Dining Services offered a variety of treats, including pumpkin and witch-shaped gummies, M&Ms, Skittles, Reese’s, bubble gum, and more. Everyone was able to choose their favorite sweets.
“I enjoyed participating in a candy competition. It was fun,” said Yulissa Barrios, a junior majoring in Marketing.
While some were collecting candy, others enthusiastically carved spooky faces into pumpkins and decorated them with bright orange, white, and black paint. Many turned their pumpkins into glowing ghosts, grinning jack-o’-lanterns, or even playful black cats. The air was filled with the scent of fresh pumpkins, adding a cozy atmosphere.
There was also a photo booth at the event, where everyone could capture a special moment or take a picture with friends. Participants received free Halloween-style photos with pumpkins, cobwebs, and other themed decorations.
For participating in games like “bite the hanging apple,” students had the chance to win small prizes and had plenty of laughs. The challenge was simple but hilarious — players had to grab a swinging apple using only their teeth, without any help from their hands. Friends cheered each other on, making the game one of the funniest moments of the evening.
The event also featured a large corn-themed inflatable where both children and Saint Leo University students could jump, play, and enjoy themselves together. The bounce house quickly became one of the most popular attractions!
“This is a wonderful place to hang out, have fun, and experience the Halloween atmosphere,” said Barrios.
The most intriguing part of the evening was the costume competition. Have you ever seen a zombie walking around campus or a banana next to a clown? At Saint Leo, it was possible! Students presented the most creative costumes and competed for the title of the spookiest costume.
“This is my last year at the university, and I will not have the opportunity to have fun on Halloween with students again next year. Today I dressed up as Woody, and I hope I win the costume competition,” said Ben Hasapidis, a senior majoring in Digital Communications.
Professors also came to encourage and communicate with the students. They watched the competitions and games between the students, helped them, and cheered them on.
“My goal at this event is to support the students,” said Dr. Stephen Baglione, a Professor of Marketing and Quantitative Methods.
Halloween Palooza was memorable for students, staff, and professors due to its warm atmosphere, enjoyable activities, and genuine laughter. During the busy university semester, it is important to take breaks and clear your mind, and Dining Services, together with CAB, provided everyone with that opportunity.
Students at Saint Leo still have many exciting events to look forward to, where everyone can express themselves, make new friends, and feel that the campus is not just a place to study but a true home full of joy and support.
1 Comment
This sounds so fun!