For those who cannot wait for Halloween, students can get an early start to the weekend festivities tonight at the Student Recreation Center.

The Monster Mash Wellness Bash kicks off tonight at 10 p.m. and is expected to last until 1 a.m. There are a handful of activities planned for the late night event including a campfire, a tour of the University’s ‘haunted’ buildings and a dance contest.

Director of the Wellness Connection Faith Yingling said she is excited for the first ever Monster Mash Wellness Bash.

‘We’re hoping for a good turnout; the weather is supposed to be nice and it should be a lot of fun,’ she said.

Yingling said she encourages those planning on attending the event to show up in costume.

‘Those who are wearing a costume will be able to enter into the raffle and receive prizes at the end of the night,’ she said.

Although the event is centered around Halloween fun, there will also be a focus on alcohol awareness and safety. Several students at the event will be acting as the souls of the deceased that passed away through alcohol-related deaths. One of these characters will be freshman Amanda Carter, who will be acting as the soul of someone who chose to drink and drive.

‘These characters, which we call ‘dead roamers,’ are a way to keep students conscious and aware of the dangers of alcohol,’ Carter said.

Carter said she realizes there are a few other events going on, but students should still try to make it to the Wellness bash.

‘I really expect it to be fun. It’s free and educational as well,’ she said.

As one of the planners, Carter said she hopes for a good crowd because she and others have put in a lot of effort forth.

‘Everything is all set up and ready to go,’ she said. ‘I hope it all turns out well, we have been working hard so, hopefully, many will enjoy it.’ ‘