By Margaret P. McAuley
Staff Writer
Hobbits, elves, men, wizards and even nazguls attended the first part of Bilbo’s Birthday Party in the Finnegan Fieldhouse Plaza. The event was hosted by the FUS Tolkien Society to kick off the National Tolkien Conference on Sept. 21 at 5 p.m.
The plaza was decorated with string lights and a large banner wishing Bilbo Baggins a happy birthday.
Tables at the event were draped with white tablecloths and topped with vases filled with flowers. Fire pits were brought out and lit later into the night.
The party began with a Hail Mary in Elvish. Music from the Lord of the Rings soundtrack played and those who wished could learn the Hobbit Folk Dance or the Polish Line Dance.
There was also an opportunity to play Lord of the Rings-themed mafia in the Fireside Lounge.
Snacks were provided for attendees as well, with offerings of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheese, breads and various cookies set out on a side table. This table was heavily frequented throughout the entirety of the party, as attendees ate and chatted around the tables.
“I’m embracing my inner hobbit by eating and drinking as much as I can,” said Brother Joseph Loch, a freshman. “I’m very pleased with the spread here tonight.”
The party began to wind down at around 9 p.m. as students began to make their way back to their dorms.
“It felt like stepping into Middle Earth for an evening,” said Marie Ross, a freshman. “The dancing added to the celebration. It was very jovial!”
“I feel like I’m in Hobbiton! It’s surreal!” said Christelle Patin, a freshman.
The conclusion to Bilbo’s party was hosted on Saturday night to close out the conference.