Handmaids Hosts Fall-Themed Festivities 

By Peyton Voorheis 
Staff Writer 

As the leaves change and the temperature drops, students start getting excited for autumn. To celebrate the welcome changes, Handmaids of the Lord hosted their yearly fall-themed coffee house, Flannel Fest. 

On Oct. 25, students filled the J.C. Williams’ Center Atrium to spend their Friday evening enjoying crafts and performances. Handmaids coordinator Dorothy Lynne said “we’ve done flannel fest many times before; it’s perfect fall vibes.” 

Several student musicians took the stage, performing everything from pop to country. In between acts, students could volunteer to compete in brief minute-to-win-it style challenges, such as a Sprite-chugging competition or a tortilla slap fight. 

There were also coloring sheets on every table. Other crafts, such as watercolors or plastic pumpkins to paint, were available to be purchased. When asked what his favorite part was, senior engineering major Lukas Cassidy said, “I enjoyed the art.” 

Attendees could purchase hot chai or baked goods via donation. There was a prize to whoever made the largest donation by the end of the evening, although this was not announced during the event. Lynne said “I really love all the baked goods we have. We put a lot of effort into them and I think they look really good.” 

Senior philosophy major Kelenna Obi said “I thought the event was amazing. I loved the turnout of people, and the energy was really out of this world.” Sophomore Suzie Judge shared this sentiment, saying “I really enjoyed the music and the atmosphere.” 

Indeed, the musicians were a highlight of the evening. “I just thought that everyone was a really good singer,” said visitor Claire Rosa. 

Performers showcased their creativity with unique acts. Sophie Propson performed “caffeine problems,” a parody of Taylor Swift’s “champagne problems,” receiving much applause, and Timothy O’Brien performed a rap about dinosaurs with his Seraphic Valor household brothers. 

Another highlight of the evening was Rev. Rufino Corona, TOR, singing and playing guitar. “I told myself I was done playing at coffeehouses,” Joked Rufino, “but here we are.” 

Between last minute acts and audience requests for encores, the stage was still occupied at 10:30 p.m., half an hour after festivities were scheduled to end. Both Handmaids and guests alike stayed until the final act was finished.