Updated with current info for 2023
Deck the halls with blood and gore. It’s Halloween, the most wonderful time of the year! At least if you happen to be an OU student and enjoy hosting the state’s biggest annual porch/street party. Of course, it’s all fun and games until someone gets a DUI, or gets arrested. Have fun, but play it safe. Here are four tips for surviving an Athens Halloween.
Driving drunk is never a good idea.
Athens’ ridiculous 25 mph speed limits aren’t meant to protect the children. They exist to give cops an excuse to pull you over and smell your whiskey breath. Aside from the obvious safety risks, driving under the influence carries serious legal repercussions, especially during Halloween. The University spends about $90,000 on security for Halloween alone. The City of Athens brings in police from surrounding areas to help hold things down. Athens becomes one big block party, but it also effectively turns into a police state. About 100 students are arrested every year. Don’t become a statistic.
Take Advantage of Your Athens Parking Rental
Parking in Athens during Halloween is nuts. That parking space you are renting will be worth its weight in stars. Park your car there and leave it there. Police only see your Camaro as one rolling dollar sign on wheels. It’s not worth the traffic hassle, and surely not worth the ticket for any small infraction a bored cop catches you doing.
Know Who’s Sleeping On Your Couch
Your Athens apartment rental will likely become its own hotel. Make sure you know who is sleeping on your couch. Restrict couch crash landings to friends or at least friends of your roommates. Don’t let after hours become an excuse for a late night home robbery.
Stash Your Valuables
Halloween in Athens gets chaotic. Stash any valuable items, jewelry, electronics, cold -hard cash, in well hidden spaces during the entire weekend. Items have a tendency to disappear from Ohio University housing during Halloween, no hocus pocus involved.
Finding the Perfect Athens Housing This Halloween
If you’re planning to enjoy Athens Halloween and still haven’t figured out where you’ll be staying, fret not. With a myriad of university rentals available, you’re bound to find something perfect for the spooky weekend.
Uptown Athens Rentals is a popular choice for many students and visitors. Located in the heart of the festivities, it offers both the buzz of the celebrations and the convenience of proximity. However, if you’re the type that likes to retreat to a quiet space after all the partying, maybe a rental a bit away from the main scene would be ideal. Consider four-bedroom rentals if you’re coming in a group or studio apartments if you prefer a cozy space for yourself.
If you’re the kind of person who loves a scenic view, some rentals offer a breathtaking backdrop of Athens. Opt for a rental with a view, where you can see the festivities from a distance while sipping on some warm cider.
For those who love being close to the nightlife even beyond Halloween, an apartment near the bars might be the way to go. If you’re more of a homebody, perhaps a rental with a yard is right up your alley. Think of the Halloween BBQ possibilities!
Remember, parking is a big concern during Halloween, especially with the increased police presence. If you have a vehicle, it might be wise to consider rentals that come with a parking spot, or you can even look specifically for parking spots for rent.
For families visiting their young ones during the festivities, especially during Ohio University parents weekend, larger rentals like six-bedroom houses or five-bedroom houses can accommodate everyone comfortably.
Lastly, if you’re thinking of moving to Athens around Halloween, there are moving truck rentals available to ease your transition. And, if you want to have some serene time amidst the chaos of Halloween, consider a day trip to Strouds Run and maybe even a boat rental.
In summary, Halloween in Athens is a memorable experience. With the right place to stay, it can be even more enjoyable. So, whether you’re a student, visitor, or someone planning to move to the city, there’s an array of housing options waiting just for you. Happy Haunting!