Everyone’s favorite time of year, barn dance season, is upon us all. It’s finally time to bring out the straw hats, plaid and American paraphernalia and roll in the hay the [insert Greek house] way. But since we wait for barn dance all semester, it should be a special time, free from catastrophe. Here are some tips on what to do (and what not to do) to ensure that your barn dance is a success.
DO:
Invite someone fun. Some people prefer to have a date they’re into, some prefer to bring a friend and some people like to be set up with a date. Whichever option you decide upon, make sure it’s someone who you’ll actually have a good time with. You should also be sure to take someone who you won’t be ashamed to be with when you’re showering in hay.
DON’T:
Leave with someone who’s not your date. So maybe your friend brought someone who you have always sort of been into or maybe someone else made eyes at you on the hayride. No matter the situation, try to avoid bringing home someone else’s date at all costs—it’s really not classy, and it’s rude to ditch your own date for someone else.
DO:
Dance. After all, it is a barn dance. Go ahead and make a fool of yourself to “Wagon Wheel,” because when else will you get the opportunity to get down to country music? Aside from Tuesday night at KAMS, of course.
DON’T:
Get lost in the woods by yourself. No matter what happens, it’s never a good idea to wander in the woods by yourself. You will end up crying, losing your John Deere hat and scraping your knee on a tree stump that made you trip. Not to mention you’ll miss about half of the event that you’ve been looking forward to all semester. Just don’t do it.
DO:
Follow the theme. It might be a bit different than your typical attire, but it’s a great excuse to wear American-flag clothing that you might feel a bit ridiculous sporting otherwise. Gather up those boots, your Duck Dynasty bandana, and those overalls because, one day, college will be over. Will you ever party in a barn again? Who knows?
DON’T:
Overdo it. This seems pretty obvious, but some people just can’t hang. Make sure that you and your date take precautions in ensuring that your barn dance is free from accidents at all costs. Know your limits and be sure to follow them. Even if you don’t remember harassing Loretta’s peacocks, you’ll be much happier than if you’re yacking away in a corner all night.
DO:
Be nice to Loretta. Yes, your house did pay her a boatload for the venue, but she was not required to make homemade Chex Mix and be an all-around sweetheart. Instead of stealing a handful and running away, go ahead and give her a hug because she deserves it.
DON’T:
Be cheap. Barn dance is a special occasion, and it deserves to be treated like one. While it does involve country attire and a barn, you should still treat your date with class and splurge on that Fireball or Jameson instead of the usual Burnett’s. They will appreciate it, and it goes accordingly with the theme.