The Harvest Party is an event I look forward to every fall. It was one of the best nights of the year. From the moment I walked in, I knew this was going to be something special. The room was alive with energy, laughter, and the kind of creativity you only see when everyone decides to go all out on their costumes.
Highlights and Key Moments
Walking into the event, you could immediately feel the energy. Students arrived in a wide variety of costumes, from group themes like elderly grandmas with their caretakers to individual outfits like Rodrick from Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Larry the Cable Guy. The creativity on display made the night even more engaging.
The evening was packed with activities. A fall-themed relay race, a pumpkin seed spitting competition, and the ever-popular costume contest were just a few of the highlights. The costume contest was a crowd favorite, with participants walking down an aisle, striking poses, and earning cheers from the audience. Glow-in-the-dark lights added to the atmosphere, making it feel festive yet slightly eerie.
Another memorable moment was the donut-eating contest. Watching blindfolded students attempt to finish donuts dangling from strings was hilarious.
For me, the best part of the night was seeing how students interacted with one another. Grace’s community is one of the things that makes this university so special. Whether you were meeting someone new or reconnecting with friends, the Harvest Party created space for meaningful connections
.Behind the Scenes: Student Leaders and Volunteers
A lot of effort went into making the Harvest Party a success, and it was clear that student leaders and volunteers played a big part in it. From setting up the glowing lights and spooky decorations to organizing games and contests, their hard work didn’t go unnoticed.
One of the things I appreciated most was how intentional the organizers were about creating an inclusive event. They made sure there were activities for everyone, from those who enjoy high-energy competitions to those who prefer quieter moments to connect.
The teamwork involved in hosting the event was inspiring. Watching peers step up to serve their community reminded me of the importance of leadership and collaboration at Grace. These kinds of events aren’t just about having fun, they’re also about learning how to serve others with a joyful heart, a value we take seriously as a university.
Impact and Takeaways
As much as the Harvest Party was about fun, it also reflected Grace Christian University’s mission: “Graduate Courageous Ambassadors for Christ Who Make an Eternal Impact Wherever They Go.” This mission was woven into the evening through prayer, worship, and a devotional led by our campus pastor intern, Marc Paskiewicz.
Hearing Marc share a meaningful message during the event was a reminder of the foundation we have as a community rooted in Christ. While we enjoyed the costumes and games, we also had moments to pause, reflect, and thank God for the relationships and opportunities we share at Grace.