VEISHEA  is a time for celebrating. For some, it marks the end of a first year. For others, it’s become a tradition that symbolizes the essence of Iowa State. Either way, it is something that everyone should experience and in the best way possible. So here are some dos and don’ts to making VEISHEA fun and safe.

Do go see the bands. You pay $10 to see eight different bands within two nights; that opportunity doesn’t come around very often. Just make sure you’re in the right “mind set” to make the trek to the Molecular Biology parking lot safely.

Don’t wander off on your own just because you want to see the bands and your friends don’t. There are thousands of people on campus that weekend, and your friends don’t want to spend their night tracking you down.

The pancake feed is a must. Go with your friends to central campus anytime between midnight and 3 a.m. Saturday night/Sunday morning to get your fill of breakfast items.

Do make it a challenge to try as many different foods from vendors as possible. You can’t lose with something fried and on a stick or huge walking tacos. If nothing else, do it to support the local businesses.

If you’re feeling “under the weather,” don’t blow your entire day’s meal all over Lincoln Way. It’s not cool, and the cops won’t find it very entertaining.

Do try to get up for the parade on Saturday. If you want a good feel for the Ames community, the parade is the place to see it. Students, families, alumni and community members all come out that day to celebrate VEISHEA and Iowa State.

Don’t be a homebody the week of VEISHEA. It’s the perfect excuse to celebrate all week long, and it only happens once a year.

Do get signed up for one of the VEISHEA tournaments. There’s every form of competition offered, ranging from sand volleyball to canoe races. So get some friends together and compete to win prizes.

Don’t be an angry drunk. Getting into a full-out wrestling match on Welch Avenue or starting a cat fight for no apparent reason doesn’t make you look tough, it just makes you look dumb.

Do take full advantage of everything VEISHEA has to offer. It’s one of those traditions that makes this school what it is. Don’t be afraid to get a little wild and have fun, but be safe and smart about it.