Did you know that there are usually about 40 events that happen in the Down Under each school year? With 16 weeks in a semester, that’s about one to two events per week! Now, I know you’re probably thinking, “Okay, so what?” Well, keep reading!

The Down Under is located in the UC, on the lower level between Fire/H’eat and Warhawk Alley. Both UC Entertainment and Warhawk Alley host a number of events throughout the year. Event attendance always starts off great at the beginning of the year. However, as the semester goes on, the numbers usually start to dwindle. We understand! Between classes, homework, jobs, practices, student orgs, social life, workouts, etc., life can get a little hectic. But fear not! We have all the reasons you need to make attending Down Under events worthwhile!

Cheap Entertainment

As college students, we’re all ballin’ on a budget. But no need to worry because many of the Down Under events are FREE! Yes, you read that right: F-R-E-E. Keep in mind, events such as trivia nights usually cost $2 person; but, this is a small cost for the amount of quality entertainment that you are going to receive in exchange. So why are these events so cheap, you ask? Because Down Under events are funded by SUFAC. SUFAC money is allocated specifically for student services and campus events. So, take advantage! After college, you probably won’t find this much quality entertainment for such a good price!

Variety of Entertainment 

What kind of events take place in the Down Under? Glad you asked! Events hosted by UC Entertainment include: Comedians, Hypnotists, Magicians, Slam Poets, Karaoke, Open Mic, and Live Music. Events hosted by Warhawk Alley in the Down Under include: Trivia and Bingo. So, whether you want a good laugh, want to jam out, or just want to test your knowledge, there’s definitely an event for you in the Down Under. And don’t forget to check out other events such as the movies that UC Entertainment puts on each week or the bowling, billiards, or video game tournaments in Warhawk Alley!

Close Proximity

If you live on or near campus, then you’re only a short distance away from a great time! The Down Under is located in the University Center, just minutes from where you were sitting in class a few hours prior. Plus: the parking lots are usually pretty empty at night. So, if you’re feeling too lazy to walk (like my friends and I often do), you can park at the UC meters or in the lots 12 or 14 with a parking pass. The events are typically one to two hours, so you’ll have plenty of time with the two-hour meter limit. Extra plus: parking is free from 5 p.m. on Friday until Sunday Night.

Study Break

Do you find yourself drowning in a slew of homework? Take a break! Down Under events are the perfect opportunity for this. For just a short hour or two you can escape the stress of that paper, project, presentation, etc. After all, laughter has been proven to have health benefits and reduce stress. And who doesn’t love avoiding homework to do something more fun?

Socializing

Ever get in those ruts where you’re just so busy that it seems like you don’t ever see your friends anymore? Or maybe there’s that long-lost friend you haven’t seen in a while? Invite them to Down Under events with you! It’s a great way to catch up and have a good time too. On the flip side, it’s also a great way to meet new people. Introduce yourself to someone new, and what do you know? You have a new friend!

Prizes

Yup, at select events, there are prizes! Events such as Trivia and Bingo usually provide a whole table of neat goodies to take home! And I’m not just talking a piece of candy or a teddy bear. No, these prizes are legit: Free bowling, movie passes, groceries, chairs, blankets, coolers, games, and more! UC Entertainment also gives out T-shirts at their events and sometimes little gizmos like key chains or coupons just for showing up! 

Dining Specials

Food is the true way to a college student’s heart. Need I say more? At select events, there are dining specials sponsored by UW-W Dining Services at Fire and H’eat. They’re usually offered between 6-10 p.m. on the night of the event. Don’t like the dining specials offered? Don’t worry, Fire and H’eat are still open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on the weekdays with their regular menu as well.

Down Under events are a heck of a good time! There’s really nothing negative about them, besides the limited number of seats, so make sure to get there early! For those of you who enjoy going to Down Under events, thanks for your support and we love having you! For those who have never been to a Down Under event, I highly encourage you to check it out! You don’t know what you’re missing out on!