For hundreds of Bulldogs, Wednesday night was spent at the Dave & Buster’s takeover event. The night was filled with games, music and food.

Fresno State’s Spotlight Events hosted the party from 6-10 p.m. and gave students the opportunity to enjoy some exclusive deals by providing their Bulldog ID numbers. The promotions included 15% off on all food items and a free game card with $20 worth of credits.

Many Bulldogs went head-to-head in Mario Kart, darts and tournaments in the new Dave & Buster’s Arena. Raffles were also held throughout the duration of the event, giving away Fresno State merchandise to ticket winners.

Shawna Blair, coordinator of events with Student Involvement, said she was happy with the turnout.

“Dave & Buster’s have been great hosts and have wanted to do anything they can for students,” Blair said. “We’re excited students wanted to come out and be a part of everything.”

One highlight of the night was when Victor E. Bulldog made a special appearance. Students lined up to snap photos and greet him while he walked around the arcade.

Jesus Aquino, a Fresno State senior, spent the night with his friends after a busy start to his fall semester. 

“This event gives us students a chance to really get to know other students, enjoy ourselves and remind us that we are appreciated as students,” Aquino said.

Music livened up the scene with DJ Bluz Cluz, a recent Fresno State graduate, keeping the energy high.

“We are excited to bring him back and have him be a part of the night,” Blair said.

The event was one of many in the Fresno State Welcome Week lineup, with events like midday Bulldog Bingo in the Memorial Gardens and Fresno State Night at Chukchansi Park, home of the Fresno Grizzlies. 

All of these events aim to bring students together outside of lecture halls and classrooms.

Melissa Rosales, a Fresno State junior and Dave & Buster’s fan, was excited to game for free. She beat the high score on Lock Pick and earned 500 tickets in one go.

“I think these events make me aware of who’s actually around on campus, like obviously you don’t see any of these people in your major classes,” Rosales said.

Other students, like freshman Emily Temores, say these events always make her feel welcome.

“Fresno State makes me feel really good. It makes me feel like they actually care about their students,” Temores said.