Oakland University’s campus authentically transforms into a full-on carnival for one night each year. On Friday, Sept. 9, Welcome Week came to a close as the Student Program Board threw their annual Welcome Week Carnival.

The event took place north of the Oakland Center, near Bear Lake. The location was a prime spot to watch the sunset.

As every ride was actively filled with students, the elephant ears truck could not catch a break from students who were anxiously waiting in line for their turn. Spinning teacups, a swinging pirate ship, a mini Ferris wheel and an obstacle course were all in full use by students kicking off the fall semester. 

WXOU DJed all night long and made a tremendous impact in the energy of the students. Blasting a wide variety of music, including throwbacks such as TLC and Britney Spears, they had everyone singing and dancing along.

Students formed a circle surrounding students to dance battle. Groups of students gathered to dance along to the famous “Cupid Shuffle” and “The Cha-Cha Slide.”

There were some in particular who stood out from the crowd. Irelyn Ellis and her friends became the center of attention as they performed their own dance routines.

“It was so much fun [dancing in front of everyone], the energy from the crowd just hypes you up and makes you feel so much better. I do hip-hop and I’m taking ballet [at Oakland],” Ellis said. “I love the carnival so much, the music goes with any culture. Everyone can vibe with it.”

Sigma Pi and Rho Gamma came out to volunteer for the event. Abby Godwin, Rho Gamma member, explained her involvement in the carnival.

“It’s a really fun event that I like coming to,” she said. “I like coming out and seeing all of the students enjoying the event and having a good time and welcoming everyone back to a new school year. Sigma Pi fraternity puts on their pig roast. I’m here with the Rho Gammas for sorority fall recruitment and we’re volunteering doing the games.”

The SPB carnival was a visible accomplishment for their organization. Marketing director, Rebecca Robbins shared her insight on its success. 

“The purpose of this event is to bring students together. This is one of our biggest annual events after the casino night,” Robbins said.

The event progresses every year as SPB plans each fall’s carnival to be different from the last. 

“This year we have a Ferris wheel,” Robbins said. “We get a new director every year, so whatever they want to do, is what they bring. This carnival wraps up summer.”