Last Friday, DU held the second annual BIG Event, this year paired with the annual hockey ticket campout, which sold over 500 season tickets according to DU Athletics.

The BIG Event was held in conjunction with the hockey campout to attract more students according to Jill Duffy, assistant director of Student Activities.

“It’s hard to get people to one place at DU,” said Duffy, “so we’ll create an atmosphere where there’s a ton of things happening and where there’s something for everyone. In general, we’re trying to promote Pioneer spirit.”

The BIG Event featured free skating with the DU hockey team , unveiling of Homecoming Royalty, drawings for prizes, Minute to Win It themed competitions for CartoGo driving “minutes,” a kickball tournament, henna tattoos and free face painting. It was sponsored by numerous campus organizations including Student Activities, DU Athletics and the DU Programming Board.

The BIG Event returned to campus this year after the first BIG Event was held on campus last spring.
As the stars of the BIG Event, DU’s hockey team was able to skate alongside fellow DU students as a way to relax before starting their season.

“It was awesome,” said freshman forward Emil Romig. “Seeing all those people who brought the tents really shows the spirit of DU. It was great to come and see people support us.”

Romig further stated his belief that the success of the event was due to students being able to interact with players on the ice rink.

Duffy said the next BIG Event will be held on February 28. Additional activities may include bringing more performing artists, including the hypnotist who performed during Discoveries orientation week.