Written by: Sam Coulson
When the routine of college life gets you down, the one thing that can revive your spirit is free food. UPB’s Late Night Breakfast, a JMU staple thrown multiple times throughout the semester, is one means to this end. Last Thursday, September 26th, the event in Festival did not disappoint.
Like any UPB event, Late Night Breakfast was buzzing with energy. Along with the free food, JMU X-Labs was set up with information on their upcoming pop-up classes, such as a virtual reality experience or a nitrogen ice cream class. There was also a DJ set up downstairs blasting some familiar and upbeat music, making for a fun, low stress night. Next to the DJ, there was even an escape room themed around Area 51. Those who participated worked together in small groups, figuring their way out of an out-of-this-world, high stakes scenario. It was a great way to leave behind the stress of classes for a moment.
The event would be nothing without the food they offer along with all of these activities. This time around, students were treated to French toast sticks, tater tots, bacon, and fruit. Macey Porter, a freshman Sociology major, was thrilled by the food. “My favorite part of breakfast is the balance between salty and sweet.” She said. The food checked any and all boxes that breakfast food should check, striking this balance very nicely.
Being in Festival, this event tends to surprise some students who happen to stumble across it. One of these students, Alexis Ray, a sophomore Communications Major, experienced this. “I was already here studying, so I decided to get some late-night breakfast.” She said. “Breakfast at night is my favorite.” The event is a great way to help students like Alexis take a break, doing something unexpected and relaxed.
This Late Night Breakfast was a major success. As always, it was an excellent time for students to take a moment for themselves, interact with each other, and just have fun. Because of this, students continue to come out for these events. Tori Mendoza, a senior biology major, is one of those students.
“My roommates and I come to every Late Night Breakfast as a tradition,” she said. This event has become a cornerstone experience for many students.
If you missed this iteration of Late Night Breakfast, no worries. UPB puts on a few Late Night Breakfasts every semester. On top of that, they provide a wide range of other activities for students. The next big UPB event? The Fall Concert, featuring Bryce Vine and special guest Blanco Brown on Friday, October 25th.