Drinking games aren’t one of the official Veishea activities, but alcohol is a big part of the Veishea tradition for some students. Students who see Veishea as one big party may want to pay close attention to the alcohol policy in order to keep out of trouble.

Contrary to popular belief, Veishea doesn’t have its own alcohol policy. The same rules and regulations regarding alcohol on campus apply, which basically means it’s not allowed. Alcohol will not be sold where it is not sold during the rest of the year on campus, and alcoholic beverages will not be allowed to be taken into any events, including the parade, Battle of the Bands, tournaments and Live at Veishea.

“I want to stress that the alcohol policy is not changed from any other time of the year,” said Veishea General Co-chairman Nate Johansen.

“Alcohol is not permitted at the sites we are using for events, and open containers are not allowed in these areas.”

The Student Information Handbook states that “the university will clearly designate all locations where alcoholic beverages may be served.

Unless specifically allowed by state permit or university policy, the consumption of alcoholic beverages is not permitted within university buildings, within university vehicles or on other university property.”

Some residence halls do allow alcohol for those of legal age on their premises. However, some dorms are completely dry, even for students 21 and older. A few areas on campus have permits for the sale of alcohol, including the MacKay Hall Tearoom, the Iowa State Center, Veenker Golf Course and the Memorial Union.

Since Veishea draws in so many people and is one of the largest events in Iowa, why doesn’t the university set a separate alcohol policy for Veishea?

“We don’t create separate judicial processes for student events that can’t be applied in all situations,” said Dione Somerville, dean of students.

“Veishea is a great time to celebrate the festivities, fun, spring and many other things, and we want students to behave responsibly. We are hoping students can have awareness beforehand so they don’t get themselves into trouble during the event.”

Drinking illegally on campus can have consequences if people are caught.

Somerville said any people partaking in activities illegal during the rest of the year are subject to the same consequences during Veishea, which can include involvement of the ISU Police, sanctions by the university and ramifications from residence halls.

While some students believe drinking should be allowed on campus during Veishea, many others are satisfied with the current policy.

“I think a lot of students here have problems limiting themselves with alcohol,” said Haley Hilleman, senior in journalism and mass communication.

“If you keep yourself in control, then other people don’t have to deal with you either. There’s a lot of fun stuff to do during Veishea without having to involve alcohol.”