Does Halloweekend help or hinder the student experience?

Halloween marks a transitionary period between harvest and winter. It is the indicator of the nights turning darker and the leaves falling weaker, but most importantly, in its Christian tradition, is a day to honour the dead. Students now have the opportunity to pay homage to their passed loved ones at events such as the "Tropiloco" Warehouse Rave or at "Chucky in the jungle." In fact, the students are so lost in commemoration, they have issued Halloween an extension for the entire weekend - how thoughtful.

Of course, Halloween is now separated from its archaic practices or attitude, with its new focus being (scary) fancy dress, trick or treating, and late night social gatherings. The students, now, can utilise their newly issued government loan to attend club nights or throw house parties with limited short term financial repercussions. It truly is an unforgettable weekend.

The local residents, on the contrary, are not as keen on "Halloweekend" celebrations as the students. In October last year there were three times as many anti-social behaviour reports made in Jesmond as there were in august. This is no coincidence. The Northumbria police have preventative measures in place for the wrongdoers, however, these are frequently dismissed. Edith Harrogate, a Jesmond local said "most nights at home are disrupted by the students, with Halloween being no exception . Last year it was like an earthquake." It seems the students of Jesmond have outdone themselves, house party disruption is now appropriately measured on the Richter scale.

But, if you aren't interested in simulating natural disaster or disturbing your neighbour, perhaps you could be tempted by some university endorsed Halloween events such as the student union's Halloween quiz night or the Newcastle Theatre Royals' closing night of "Miss Saigon", although, you'd have to opt for the matinee if you wanted to do both.

Whatever event the students decide to attend or host, they must attempt to be more respectful, otherwise they might find the police have come trick or treating.