Zoë Strickland | Editor-in-Chief

As it gets to be the middle of term, it’s important to hit the books and study for midterms. However it’s also important to take some time and explore all of Western has to offer. Here are some events on and off campus that can provide you with a reprieve from studying.

The Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival has been extended by one week — rather than closing on April 30 as planned, the festival’s last day is now slated for May 6. For those who want to get out of the Monmouth-Independence area, the festival can provide a break from studying. In addition to roaming the tulips, festival-goers can pick up food and purchase their own flowers. For people who choose to go specifically on the weekends, they can also take advantage of hot air balloon rides and a craft marketplace. Admission for the festival is $5 per person or $20 per full car.

There are a myriad of different on-campus music events happening this week. All of the events are free for Western students and offer a wide variety of tunes to listen to. On Wednesday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m., the music department is holding a showcase of current piano students and their work. The following day on May 3, junior Emmaly Basabara will be performing her junior violin recital. The event begins at 7:30 p.m. Rounding out the week of music events is a Friday night performance by the Salem String Quartet. The show is on May 4 at 7:30 p.m. as well. For those who are interested in seeing the string quartet, prices vary: $8 general admission, $5 for students and senior citizens, or free with a Western student ID.

From May 10 to May 12 Western’s dance department will be hosting the 10th annual Spring Dance Concert. The concert will feature numbers choreographed by students, faculty and Rainbow Dance Theatre. Tickets are $8 for students with a Western ID, $10 for senior citizens and $14 for general admission. Those who are interested in attending the dance concert can purchase tickets at the box office in Rice Auditorium.

Contact the author at journaleditor@wou.edu

Photo by: Elissa Sorenson