A Night at St. Edward’s Annual Homecoming Casino: Glitz, Glamour, and a Dash of Nostalgia
Every year, St. Edward’s University transforms its campus for Homecoming, but this year, the Alumni Gym was particularly enchanting. With the evening’s theme celebrating a swanky masquerade-style casino, students were invited to step into a world of high-stakes excitement, vibrant ambiance, and unforgettable memories.
An Atmosphere of Opulence
As attendees entered the transformed Alumni Gym, they were greeted with an atmosphere that felt both luxurious and inviting. Ambient lighting set the scene as blended tunes by local DJ Djmotivate enveloped the space, instantly transporting guests to a bustling casino. Wandering waiters offered an array of delicious hors d’oeuvres, heightening the sense that they had been teleported far from their usual campus environment. However, as the students mingled and enjoyed the night’s offerings, a sense of nostalgia lingered in the air, with many recalling previous Casino Nights fondly.
Masquerade Magic
The masquerade theme added an element of intrigue and excitement to the evening. As guests entered, they were treated to a selection of black, gold, and silver masks, allowing them to don new identities and immerse themselves fully in the night’s festivities. This was especially fitting given the event coincided with Halloween weekend; many students arrived in elaborate costumes, adding to the vibrancy and exoticism of the evening.
A Mixed Bag of Experiences
Sophomore Wes Daniels shared his thoughts on the evening, noting a comparative sense of nostalgia for last year’s Casino Night. “It sounds stupid to say it was a year ago, but maybe (for) pure nostalgia reasons,” he admitted, feeling the current year’s atmosphere fell slightly short due to brighter lights that detracted from the casino vibes. Despite this, he appreciated the fun of gambling, particularly at the roulette table.
As the night progressed, guests found themselves drawn to the various gaming tables set up around the gym, featuring classic games like poker, blackjack, craps, and roulette. However, Daniels noted the absence of a bar for students of age, which was a highlight of the previous year’s event. Instead, a chocolate fountain with strawberries, graham crackers, and pretzels provided a sweet alternative for students to snack on.
Dealer Highlights and Gaming Preferences
Senior Anna Southern shared a standout moment from the night with her blackjack dealer, Susan, who provided valuable lessons amidst playful banter. “She was a hard dealer, but she was really just teaching us,” recalled Southern. Susan’s tough-love approach left a lasting impression, blending humor with the competitive spirit that blackjack invites.
Blackjack tables were indeed the most prominent feature of the evening, causing poker tables to overflow with eager participants. Daniels noted the sheer number of blackjack tables—around 22—which showcased the game’s popularity. “Blackjack is fun, easy to teach to people, so I understand why, but I feel like there could have been more variety,” he suggested, hinting at the desire for a broader gaming experience.
Longing for Past Features
Among the attendees, there was a collective sentiment of missing the diversity that last year’s Casino Night offered. Many students fondly recalled the tarot card reader, a unique touch that captivated the crowd. Suggestions for enhancing future casino nights included bringing back food trucks for diverse dining options and turning off the overhead lights to create a more immersive atmosphere. “I will say that having the lights on was a brave choice,” remarked Rory Lee De La Garza, reflecting on the bold decision by event organizers.
Celebrating Homecoming Spirit
As the night drew to a close, the excitement shifted from gaming to acknowledgment, as the Homecoming Topper Cup winners were announced. University President Montserrat Fuentes took to the stage to celebrate the top teams, with the “Holy Goats” taking home first place, followed by “Campilicious,” and a tie for third between “Goatbeth” and the “Topper Club.” The Homecoming Royal Court was equally celebrated, with winners Zelie Alvernhe and Andrew Bandata receiving their crowns amidst cheers.
In a delightful finish to the evening, attendees cashed in their chips for raffle tickets, vying for enticing prizes such as a Nintendo Switch Lite and JellyCat stuffed animals.
Wrapping Up a Memorable Evening
St. Edward’s Casino Night encapsulated the spirit of Homecoming, blending excitement, nostalgia, and community. While opinions on the event’s details varied, the commitment to providing a memorable experience was evident. As students danced, laughed, and engaged in friendly competition, one thing was clear: Casino Night remains a cherished tradition that continues to evolve and inspire, leaving attendees eager for the next celebration under the lights.
