It’s the Union Programming Council’s (UPC) biggest event held twice a year... Crimson Nights! If you haven’t heard of Crimson Nights, it’s a bi-annual, late-night, campus-wide party with dancing, food, activities, music and more! Just last week, the UPC’s Crimson Nights board put together a pride themed Crimson Nights event. 

If you missed going last week, don’t worry. There will always be another Crimson Nights! ‘Till then, I put together a recap to get you hyped up for what the future Crimson Nights could bring. 

Kahlert Village Walk Party 

The Freshman Ambassador Board (FAB) tries to gather students outside Kahlert Village before the event starts by providing outdoor games like cornhole, Spikeball and ladder ball to create a walk party to the Union. The walk party always includes free snacks and drinks. You also get to check-in to the event early and skip the entrance line. Talk about VIP access! 

Drag Show 

With the theme of pride, the event started off with a drag show with multiple local artists including Mya DVRSTY, Izzy Lovely, The Whore of 94, Sequoia, Sister Molly Mormon and Whorechata. The queens did an amazing job creating a high-energy environment and keeping showgoers entertained. 

The Ricky Barrera 

Following the drag show, Ricky Barrera filled the Union Ballroom full of music and bass. He was the headline for the fall semester Crimson Nights, and UPC was so impressed by him that they decided to book him for a second time for the spring semester. Ricky played songs that you could never get tired of dancing to such as “I Got a Feeling,” “Unwritten,” “Clarity” and “Hotel Room Service.” Watching everyone jump in unison, lights bouncing off the walls and students screaming song lyrics was nostalgic—it’s been a couple of years since I’ve seen a gathering like Crimson Nights in person. 

Free Food and Drinks 

When the time came to catch a break from the dancing, free food and drinks were available for students. There were several food truck vendors: Mas Gorditas with enchiladas, Fry Me to the Moon with churros and donuts, and Space Tea with a variety of boba options! If you don’t go to Crimson Nights for the dancing, then definitely go for the food. 

Activities 

And if you don’t go for the dancing or the food, then at least go for the activities. Crimson Nights featured tarot card readings, jousting, rock wall climbing, an art gallery, t-shirt customization, airbrush tattoos and photo booths. My favorite was the airbrush tattoo—as I was able to get a small, large-eyed lady bug sprayed onto my body. If the dancefloor isn’t your scene, Crimson Nights is sure to offer something for everyone. 

Crimson Nights Magic 

With over 1,400 students in attendance, I believe it’s safe to say that Crimson Nights was a success. The UPC puts their whole heart into throwing an event for the student body and creates an unforgettable experience. If you haven’t attended Crimson Nights, make sure to attend the next one in Fall 2022!