Hottest Event On Campus: Student Life Presents Student Bonfire

By Jenna Higbie

SUNY Niagara has hosted many events throughout the school year but one of the popular events happens to be the student bonfire!

Brought to the students by student life, the bonfire has become a tradition loved by so many faculty and students. SUNY Niagara has hosted bonfires as part of its campus events, such as a past breast cancer awareness event in 2021. This is just one of the many events that student life organizes, others include movie marathons, and most of the on campus activities.

The school bonfire tradition is a long standing event especially at high schools and universities. These bonfires build school spirit and celebrate athletic events! Students typically gather around a large temporary bonfire to support other events such as festivals and pep rallies.

The first evera bonfire was defined by the Texas A&M bonfire, which began in 1907 as a small celebratory fire for football victories and eventually evolved into a massive, student-built structure. The tradition was canceled in 1999 after a deadly collapse during construction, however unofficial off campus bonfires have continued while also remembering the tragedy. Other universities like Dartmouth and Duke also have had bonfire traditions, though with different purposes.

Universities have expressed some safety concerns and regulations after the tragedy. Some of those risks include fire hazards, burns, uncontrolled fire, and collapses. Most schools who plan to host this type of event usually work with the local fire department and have to follow strict safety codes.

Over the years people have expressed their concerns of how the bonfire will have an impact on the environment. Bonfires can cause air pollution, carbon emissions, and can potentially harm wildlife. Some schools have considered moving to LED ‘’fires’’ or livestreams for a larger population as well as lower risks.

Student bonfires bring students together, they create memories and friendships whether it is the end of an exam or the celebration of an athletic victory they bring an atmosphere of energy and happiness that other events may not be able to live up to. A senior at Midwest University says ‘’ It’s not just about the fire. It’s about unity. When we all stand around the flames, it feels like we are a part of something even bigger than ourselves.’’

Schools have also been debating practices like burning mascots, which some may view inappropriate or aggressive to some people. What was once seen as harmless fun is now being reconsidered through cultural sensitivity and respect. Another student who is an environmental science major shares her opinion on school bonfires ‘’ I love the idea of celebrating together but we also have to think about how we are affecting the planet and each other.’’

During the Covid 19 pandemic virtual bonfires were brought to schools, where students could gather online and share videos or music. Even at Texas A&M where the official bonfire was discontinued, students organized a bonfire off campus with its own rules, safety procedures and a remembrance for those lives lost.

Bonfires show the passion of the student body and the spirit that it endures. They remind us that the community matters and sometimes you need to just gather around a big fire with some old or new friends.