Wolfieland Envelops Stony Brook in Music and Lights

The smell of fried dough and powdered sugar floated over the Student Activities Center parking lot all afternoon, mixing with the DJ's booming speakers and the chatter of students waiting in line for the new Tokyo Drift ride.

Wolfieland, Stony Brook's fall carnival, returned for its ninth year on September 20, transforming the everyday commuter lot into a festival of lights, games and food that lasted late into the night.

Only 30 minutes in, the lot was packed. Inside, students played cornhole and mock game shows, while outside, the line for ride wristbands stretched down the sidewalk. Laughter and music rolled together in a steady roar, broken only by the sound of rides kicking into motion and the accompanying squeals.

Lines for the rides looped endlessly, growing longer as students streamed in. The Ferris wheel and Round Up dominated the skyline, spinning attractions that blurred bright greens and blues into streaks. On the outskirts of the event, competitive games were popular with students, testing their luck for stuffed prizes.

Freshman Tanisha Muralimanohar, who came with her friend Aadya Sharma, laughed as she recounted her night. "We've already played the water gun game ten times tonight."

Food trucks lined the perimeter, drawing those who had been waiting for hours. Benches were crowded with students enjoying the Vitamin Water and Coca-Cola tents, which offered cold drinks.

"This year feels like a huge upgrade," said Beth Portnoy, assistant vice president of communications for Undergraduate Student Government (USG). "We've added new vendors, the turnout has been amazing, and everything feels in control."

Her assessment matched the mood of the night. For first-year students, the chaos of Wolfieland felt like a rite of passage. Groups huddled close, weaving between attractions and pointing out which ride to try next. For faculty, staff, returning students and alumni, it was nostalgia.

"It's one of our most incredible traditions," said Richard Gatteau, vice president for student affairs. "It's a wonderful partnership between USG and student engagement, a true example of community building. Honestly, it even feels like a reunion."

Behind the scenes, organizers saw Wolfieland as a chance to reinvent while keeping its familiar spirit. Sebastian Adams, USG's vice president of student life, noted new sponsors like Adobe Express, a new staging setup and the addition of the Tokyo Drift ride. "We're expecting record numbers this year," he said. "I just wanted to show out and bring some new things to the table."

Between rides and food trucks, students sprawled across the asphalt, chatting in circles on the ground or posing for photos under the lights. Even as the night wore on, the energy didn't fade.

By the time the final rides slowed and the food trucks packed up, the Student Activities Center lot was littered with neon wristbands and empty fry containers. Students left in groups, carrying prizes, snapping last selfies, their laughter trailing into the night.

Wolfieland ended the way it began: loud, bright and unforgettable.

- Lily Miller