Cue the tumbleweeds and boot spurs because Fresno State went full western Wednesday night for Bulldog Roundup, hosted by Spotlight Events. The South Lawn of the Resnick Student Union was full of fun themed activities that would make any cowboy proud.
While classic country hits played in the background, students chose from three different stations, each one offering a different way to show off their craftiness.
A beaded turquoise bracelet making station was front and center, and students quickly began threading their own version of the southwest’s iconic jewelry style.
This style is known for its use of bold colors and patterns and natural materials, which were replicated in the turquoise beads and leather bands students used in the crafts.
This wearable art brought vibrance to the event, with every student rocking a different combination of colors and patterns on their wrist.
“We all came together to make bracelets and express our creativity through the colors that we chose, and I liked that about this event,” said Fresno State freshman Khailah Gray.
The hand pressed leather bracelets brought a more subtle fashion piece to the table, but nonetheless customizable. Students used stamps to indent names, initials and numbers into fresh strips of leather that will now serve as personalized memento of the event.
The third and final booth allowed students to paint blank pennant flags with their boldest western designs. Students showed off their artistic vision as dozens of unique flags could be seen flying in the breeze.
The western theme was well received by students, with many of them getting into it by wearing cowboy hats and boots.
“I feel like everyone can connect with this,” said first year student Cyrus Colz. “The west is a big part of history, especially if you grew up in California.”
This was Spotlight Events’ first on-campus outing of the year, making it some students’ first time experiencing an event of this kind.
Besides the fun arts and crafts, the value of Spotlight Events comes from the relief it can provide from a stressful semester.
“Spotlight Events is a place where students can come out and be a part of the Fresno State community, feeling that they are involved and can relieve their stress,” said Bethanie Braun, student event coordinator.
The night was capped off with some students winning raffle prizes that included Starbucks gift cards, western themed mugs and farm animal plushies.
Those interested in Spotlight Events next outing can keep up with them on Instagram.
