New themes and increased student awareness are expected to draw a larger crowd to Late Nite than previous years,
Hannah Miller, assistant director for programs at the office of Student Center programs, said last year 31,646 students attended the festivities, which are held every Saturday from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m in the L.A. Pittenger Student Center.
A student advisory board and event staff helped plan and raise awareness about the event using methods such as surveys and word-of-mouth, Miller said.
A Late Nite sneak-peak on Aug. 18 showed strong results, she said.
"We had a wonderful turnout of about 2,200 students," Miller said. "The Student Center was packed. They came and they stayed."
Late Nite is an opportunity for students to socialize on campus.
"It's a fun, safe alternative for students," Miller said, "They don't have to go home to have a good time, and they don't have to drive."
Freshman undeclared major Melissa Martin said she has never been to Late Nite, but will consider going this weekend.
"It sounds like a fun alternative to weekend parties," she said.
Junior health science major Sam Shaller said he would not change anything about Late Nite.
"Everybody seems to really enjoy it," he said.
A different theme each week is expected to keep students coming back for more, Miller said. Saturday, students can enjoy Italian food at Mario Mania, a night based on the popular video game character.
"We try to hone in on one theme and stick to it because it makes things more enjoyable," she said. "We want it to be different from anything the students have been to before."
The Sept. 1 Late Nite's theme is Outlaws, where students can pose in western-style costumes for antique-looking pictures.
Participants can enjoy free food, a movie screening and a dance party.
Admission to the event is free with a student ID and $5 for guests. Student fees and donations help to fund Late Nite.
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