Rianna Ostrosser – Editor-in-Chief

For the majority of the student body, Winterfest is known for its rail jam, live DJs and stylish winter outfits. From behind the bar, however, I saw a different side of the university’s biggest winter event. One where the experience is defined as much by logistics and teamwork as music and atmosphere.

This year’s event was the coldest Winterfest in the past five years, creating challenging conditions for the nine bartenders scheduled across four bar counters and a ticket booth. To manage the cold, we were provided with heating pouches, which we stuffed in our pockets, gloves and boots. The simple measure made a noticeable difference in both comfort and efficiency throughout the night.

Image courtesy of Megan Toporowski

Despite the size of the team being a lot larger than a regular Gait night, staffing levels were necessary, not excessive. The larger staff allowed us to rotate positions throughout the evening, switching between pouring drinks, restocking supplies and selling tickets. The rotations also ensured coverage remained consistent if we needed to take a brief break inside Bandeen Hall to warm up. Support from the Students’ Representative Council also played a significant role, with SRC members assisting with ticket sales and checking in regularly with staff, to help maintain steady operations during peak rushes. The event was also sponsored by Monster, whose presence contributed to the high-energy atmosphere that defined the night.

Winterfest is one of the university’s largest annual events, drawing a massive crowd to the Quad. While working the event might seem like a disadvantage, it offers a perspective most attendees don’t see. From behind the bar, I could watch the Rail Jam and hear the DJ set, all without purchasing a ticket, while also getting paid.

The fast pace of the night required constant communication among staff. We were constantly monitoring one another’s workload, coordinating our rotations and ensuring everyone took breaks. That cooperation was key to maintaining both efficiency and energy. Although working in the cold was challenging, the night’s organization made the event manageable and enjoyable to work.

Winterfest is not just a major campus event, it is also a demonstration of how preparation and teamwork can turn even the coldest conditions into a fun and successful event.