By Carroll’s campus came alive the week of Oct. 27-31, with the annual Oksoberfest, a week-long series of events designed to combine Halloween fun with responsible alcohol education.
Patrick Harris, director of student activities, organized the series of events.
“Its purpose is to educate students on the dangers of drugs and overdrinking, and to keep students safe as we go into the holiday season,” said Harris. Harris has served Carroll for 24 years.
The celebration began Monday, with an alcohol trivia event and a self-defense class in the HAC later that evening, encouraging students to learn more about safety and awareness.
“Oksoberfest is a joint effort between the Wellness Center, Residential Life, Safety and Security, and the Student Life Department,” said Harris.
On Tuesday, students joined the Helena Police Department on campus. Here, residential life and housing handed out custom jackets, beanies, stickers, and more if students participated in a blood alcohol content survey. HPD provided drunk goggles for students to use, information on drinking laws in Montana, and answered students’ various questions. Later that evening, there was also MindTap skills training in the Maronick Board Room.
Midweek events on Wednesday included a Rocky Horror Picture Show. On Thursday, there was House Party 101, for students to see the harm done and the awareness of consequences related to alcohol, drugs, and hosting.
On Halloween, it featured several events for students. There was an All Saints Mass, another Saints trivia, and a free movie night at Cinemark.
This year’s Oksoberfest drew strong student engagement, offering a mix of educational sessions, fun activities, and community involvement.
“Anything we can do to help students stay safe and make good decisions is a good thing, as we deeply care about our students,” Harris said.
