Genevieve Pfister / The Denisonian
Genevieve Pfister, Staff Writer—
Last Wednesday, the Bandersnatch was packed with excited students who gathered for Septemberfest, a student-run night of food and music to celebrate the start of fall.
The event was started by alumni Jeffrey Alder ‘20 in his sophomore year at Denison and has since been passed down to other Denison students. Jess Cohen ‘24 and Griffin Conley ‘25 inherited the responsibility for the event from previous runners Atticus Muller ‘22 and Elliot Hoinville ‘22.
Originally the event would only have one rule: the song “September” by Earth, Wind and Fire must be played every seven songs. However, one big change to Septemberfest this year was the music itself. Rather than having songs streamed from a playlist, this year’s Septemberfest featured live music from Denison student bands including DOGHOUSE, Third Grade, and The Overalls. Adding on, instead of Earth, Wind, and Fire’s “September” being played every seven songs, The Overalls performed a live cover of it as part of their set.
“Septemberfest to me has always been a student first event,” said Conley. “I decided to take a different approach with Septemberfest because it’s clear that students love live music, and bands have a great time performing on campus. Septemberfest marked an early point in the year that would kick off the semester and give bands an opportunity to get an [outside greek-life] venue.”
Cohen, who is also a member of Third Grade, said she loves being a part of the tradition and the introduction of live music.
“Septemberfest is a fun, silly tradition that commemorates the beginning of the school year really well. Being connected to a student band also provided a great opportunity of hosting live music. I hope Septemberfest continues to encourage student music and welcome all Denison students to a quirky campus celebration,” Cohen added.
Cohen would also like to thank The Bandersnatch for hosting Septemberfest and preparing an Earth, Wind, and Fire inspired menu which included specialty milkshakes and bagels. According to the event description on WhatoDU, Septemberfest also marked The Bandersnatch’s soft opening. Once it officially opens in early October, the Bandersnatch will be open for any students craving a late night snack, drink, or treat , as well as a space to have fun and hang out with friends.