In a little more than a week, we will dedicate an entire day to a drunken Madison tradition. Yet as I stop to recall last year's afternoon of inebriated madness, my fondest memory has nothing to do with alcohol. Tucked behind one Mifflin Street house, I discovered a backyard barbeque—a 180-pound pig roast that lit up my eyes like no keg ever could. This got me thinking: While we frequently dedicate entire nights to consuming our favorite beverages, we fail to give our passion for eating the exclusive attention it deserves. That's why I'm proposing a new trend on campus: the potluck party.
The buffet replaces the keg at this raucous celebration. While alcohol might be involved, the night is centered around the food. No, taking a group of friends to Hawk's for dinner doesn't count, and a stodgy dinner party won't do either. Find a friend willing to host, and let the fun begin. Each person brings a dish (upping the unpredictable fun factor) and a loud, crazy, house-party atmosphere reigns.
I know what you're thinking: Dancing and games without alcohol amounts to a fourth-grade summer camp experience. So have a drink! But with such a delectable adventure ahead of you, it would be a shame to dull the senses too much.
To spice things up even more, throw in a theme. Relax in your pajamas and have breakfast for dinner—why put off your pancake craving until morning? Invite your most attractive acquaintances for a Hawaiian luau, complete with bikinis, seafood and a coconut cream pie. Or throw a Mexican fiesta. Enjoying a homemade taco bar—a Corona in hand and a sombrero on your head—it'll feel like spring break all over again.
The potluck party does have its perils. Take, for example, the bum who shows up empty handed. He's like that asshole who tries to finagle a free keg cup, and he's clearly not welcome. Avoid this by inviting close friends—those who share your profound respect for food and would never commit such a sin. And if the freeloader still shows up? First call a party foul, then make him call Topper's.
The rewards of the potluck party don't end when the food is all gone. For one, your wallet will surely thank you. Chicken wings are a lot cheaper than Miller Lite. Your waistline will benefit as well. And let's be real: Walk by Ian's Pizza on a Saturday night, and it's obvious most follow up a drinking binge with a greasy feast to match.
As much fun as the potluck party can be, self-control is as important here as it is at the bar. Without it, both nights can end with a prayer to the porcelain god and an early bedtime. Nevertheless, a good old food coma beats a hangover any day, and I assure you there is no amount of food on your face that can top the embarrassment of drunken dancing.
While I will search for another jewel like my friend the pig, I realize that Mifflin is a Madison tradition that has nothing to do with food. But in the future, should you find yourself looking for something more than the Captain can offer, listen to your stomach. Call up some friends, crack open the cookbook and enjoy a binge of a different kind.
If you want to host a food party, invite Jay at storey@wisc.edu.
