By LeighAnn Wolle and Gabby Carlson | Echo
Olson Hall
Lights, camera . . . Christmas movies! Olson hosted characters from many classic holiday movies, such as the Grinch, Snoopy, Mary, baby Jesus and even the narwhal from "Elf." Each wing transformed their hallways to fit a different film, and many handed out Rice Krispie treats, grilled cheeses, hot chocolate and other tasty treats for their attendees to enjoy. Lights of all colors and shapes hung low from the ceilings next to snowflakes handmade by Olson's residents. Decorations representing each movie also adorned the halls, with Whoville making an appearance on First East, railroad tracks leading to the Polar Express on Second Center and Snoopy's iconic doghouse decorating the end of Third West's hall. Although some wings closed earlier than others, all in all, the Christmas cheer was burning bright among the women of Olson hall.
Decorations: 4.5 Wing involvement: 3 Originality: 3 Overall Experience: 3.5
Bergwall Hall
Look out for the iceberg . . . lettuce? First Bergwall complemented their hanging lettuce decorations with a game of lettuce bowling to start the IceBerg(wall) open house experience. Second Bergwall men conducted a hockey shootout for all who wanted to participate. Junior PA Grant Hohlbein played goalie as visitors slap-shot tennis balls his way. The women of Third Bergwall took a historical approach to the open house. Opening the door brought visitors into the early 1900s and to the infamous Titanic, which sank every 15 minutes. Fourth Bergwall laid down "ice" for its "Disney on Ice" theme. Popular characters roamed the floor, and attendees danced with Elsa and friends. IceBerg(wall) pulled you in several different directions, their themes varying a little from the overarching Iceberg theme, but both attendees and residents seemed to enjoy the night overall.
Decorations: 3.5 Wing Involvement: 3 Originality: 4.5 Overall Experience: 4
English Hall
"The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!" Buddy the Elf would have felt right at home English Hall on Tuesday. From Cellar's "White Christmas" to Third North's "Deck the Halls," Christmas music filled the hall with joy and excitement. Each wing was assigned a different song, so guests were able to step into nine different songs. Overall, decorations made a strong impression. It was clear each wing took valuable time and effort to make their event a success. A highlight of the night was the live nativity set up in First South's "Away in a Manger" theme, which won the hall's competition.
Cellar
Decorations: 5 Wing Involvement: 5 Originality: 4 Overall Experience: 4.5
First North
Decorations: 4 Wing Involvement: 3 Originality: 4 Overall Experience: 3
First South
Decorations: 5 Wing Involvement: 5 Originality: 5 Overall Experience: 5
Second North
Decorations: 3 Wing Involvement: 4 Originality: 3 Overall Experience: 3
Second Center
Decorations: 4.5 Wing Involvement: 4 Originality: 5 Overall Experience: 4
Second South
Decorations: 3 Wing Involvement: 4 Originality: 5 Overall Experience: 4
Third North
Decorations: 2 Wing Involvement: 3 Originality: 5 Overall Experience: 4
Third Center
Decorations: 4 Wing Involvement: 4 Originality: 3 Overall Experience: 3.5
Third South
Decorations: 4 Wing Involvement: 3.5 Originality: 4 Overall Experience: 4
Gerig Hall
Students were transported back to their childhoods on Wednesday night as Gerig Hall transformed into a '90s wonderland. Upon entering, guests were greeted by Marty McFly and challenged to help save the '90s. The journey through television history then began. From watching "Blue's Clues" to "Dragon Tales" and playing Pokémon to making Cootie Catchers, guests were taken to a simpler time. In addition to the specific rooms, random characters from "Friends" and pop idols from the '90s roamed the halls. Decorations were strong throughout, covering the hallways and stairways alike. Overall, Gerig's open house was well done and an entertaining homework break.
Decorations: 4.5 Hall Involvement: 4 Originality: 4.5 Overall Experience: 4
