Campus Life is getting ready to host its annual Wake Up People! event this Friday, February 18, in the Wege Ballroom from 6 p.m. to midnight. This event is open to the entire Aquinas community, and is free with a valid AQ student ID.

“The purpose of the Wake Up People event is to bring a sense of community to Aquinas, especially in the middle of winter,” said Tim Ramsay, the Program and Building Coordinator for Campus Life. “Our main goal is to provide a sense of belonging to the AQ community.”

Campus Life has partnered up for this year’s event with Creative Dining, Diversity Initiatives and other student clubs and organizations, as well as Pepsi to bring good food and entertainment to the night’s festivities.

“We will have dedicated volunteers from the student body, staff and faculty helping to ensure a smooth evening,” Ramsay said. “We will also have the Students for Striving for Sustainability and the Center of Sustainability to provide composting services during the event.”

Performances will start at 6 p.m. with Michigan country band Annabelle Road, followed by Chinua Hawk and ending with this year’s AQ Idol 5 finale, with performances by students Tim Parker, Catherine Jandernoa and Collin Tobin.

Students will also be treated with free food from area businesses such as Yesterdog, Little Caesars, and for the first time, Quaker Steak and Lube. Vegetarian options will also be available.

“Wake Up People is an alcohol-free program that presents an evening of free entertainment, prizes, food, and beverages for the Aquinas Community,” said Ramsay. “Take a break from the everyday and enjoy a 'Wintervention' sponsored by Campus Life!”