What are some major, chapter-sponsored events on your campus?

[BSUPhiSig'92]

This past year a couple of our chapters have gotten some really positive exposure by holding some big, campus-wide events. Our Alpha Kappa Lambda chapter holds an annual "Back to School" concert with 4-5 local bands. Our Sigma Pi chapter held its first Pig Roast and had a band also. Each event was actually held on campus and had about 400-500 people turn out. Lately, I've had several other chapters approach me for ideas about putting on their own event. My question is, what are some big events that chapters put on at your school that gets a big turnout? We don't have houses, so these would actually be taking place on campus.

[TSteven]

"Back in the day", the Sigma Nu chapter at my campus use to have a Beer Bust. Usually in the fall, on a Friday before a home football game, and after all the GLOs got their pledges. All the GLOs pitched in with the cost. Non-greeks were welcomed and attended, but the numbers really grew so it became "officially" an "All Greek Beer Bust". The idea was to cut back the numbers - and thus the cost. But non-greeks still came and were welcomed. However, that was then and now, with risk management issues, I don't think that would work. But perhaps something along that line where you have a large meet and greet. Have the various GLOs pitch in on food (subs, pizza slices) and soft drinks. This is also a great way to recruit and get a positive image about Greek life at the same time.

Along the concert line, how about a "Battle of the Bands". The bands would be made up of college students. GLOs, dorms, clubs could put together groups. Have the audience pick the "best" and the winner gets to play at a college dance down the line. All you need is a big flat bed truck pulled up in a commons area. And access to electricity for the sound system.