Many events took place on Goshen College’s campus over Halloween weekend, including the Haunted Ball, Día de Los Muertos and Howell-een. These events were open to everyone on campus, and their organizers noted high attendance.

The Haunted Ball was hosted by the Role-Playing Game Club and the Campus Activities Council. The event encouraged “goth, period, prom and bridesmaid garb” and gave students the opportunity to decorate Halloween masks. 

“It was great to see students express their creativity through their costumes,” said Abby King, student activities coordinator. 

According to King, they plan to continue this event and are considering “reviving haunted halls, which was a popular event years ago.”

Howell-een is an annual event put on by the residents of Howell House. Their activities included crafts, a photo booth, snacks and bobbing for apples on the front porch. 

Mia Graber, a resident of Howell, said that she considered the event a success.

“We had a great number of students show up this year from all different classes,” she said.

Día de los Muertos was a celebration hosted by the Latino Student Union (LSU), Black Student Union (BSU) and Commuter Student Association (CSA). This event happened for the first time with a good turnout from members of all three groups.

“I hope that more clubs on campus collaborate, because when we bring people together, it creates a better campus,” said Jakyra Green, the vice president of BSU.

Avilene Evangelista, a leader of CSU, said that she felt “students had a fun time learning about some of the cultures that make up GC.” 

These practices included setting up an “ofrenda,” or an altar honoring the deceased, and the Black cultural practice of “Say Their Names.” The latter of these involves a group standing in a circle and taking turns saying the names of those who have died. 

Pan dulce and hot drinks were also provided. There were also games, including musical chairs, Halloween Kahoots and Loteria. 

“We laughed, celebrated and remembered those we lost,” said Green. “It was a memorable experience.”