Story by LINCOLN MYERS Photos and Video by MALEAH GRIFFIN
Tiger Media Network
Christian Challenge welcomed students and alumni to its annual Barn Dance on Friday at the Buckeye School north of Hays. The event ran from 8-11 p.m. and featured swing dancing, music, and snacks for students at Fort Hays State University.
Chloe Nelson, a student leader with Christian Challenge, said the Barn Dance is one of the ministry’s most popular events each fall.
“I think it’s a really great event,” Nelson said. “A lot of students get to come and enjoy it and get plugged in. It’s a really good way to engage in community, especially on Oktoberfest, if you want to be able to dance and engage with some other kinds of activities that they offer.”
Friends and partners enjoy the event in each other’s company. 
The campfire out back provides a calm, enjoyable place for a break from dancing. 
Two students practice swing dancing in the outside area behind Buckeye School. 
Alayna Cossart and Maggie Shupe are all smiles for dancing, friends, and fun. 
Friends gather to spend the night together, socializing and line dancing. 
Students talk outside the hall in between dancing. 
Two students head inside to swing dance. 
Line dances take over the dance floor. 
A student dances to country music. 
Two friends catch up over a water break after dancing. 
Partners show their friends how to swing dance. 
Students enjoy the provided sweet and salty snack options.
Oktoberfest weekend in Hays draws large crowds each year, often centered around gatherings where alcohol is present. For some students, the Barn Dance offers a different way to celebrate.
“I really enjoy swing dancing,” said Ethan McPherson, an FHSU student. “There aren’t many opportunities to swing dance in an environment that is alcohol free or just safer to be around. I really enjoy being able to swing dance with friends in an environment that is all about the dancing and music.”
McPherson said the event also encourages students to meet new people.
“Dancing is a unique experience because you’re able to dance with a lot of different people who are very different in personality,” he said. “It encourages conversation and learning different dancing styles. Having just a little bit of courage to ask somebody new to dance results in learning new things and making those connections.”
For alumni, the Barn Dance is also a chance to reconnect. Trevor Haley, a former FHSU student, said he values the sense of family that the event provides.
“Despite having graduated…it’s always nice to see my family and come out here, talk with people, and make sure everyone feels welcome,” Haley said. “I think it helps me feel connected because it brings everyone back down to earth. Even though we come from different backgrounds, we all have qualities we may not see on the surface that we share together.”
Nelson said pulling off an event like the Barn Dance takes plenty of planning and teamwork.
“There are a lot of things going on behind the scenes,” she said. “You need to find a venue, get parking situated, decorate, make sure that there’s water and snacks, and plenty of space to dance as well as music. A lot of people are working behind the scenes.”
Christian Challenge leaders hope the Barn Dance will remain a space where students can celebrate, meet others, and experience community during one of the busiest weekends of the year in Hays.
Christian Challenge hosts large group gatherings at 8 p.m. every Tuesday at CrossPoint Church, 1300 Harvest Rd. in Hays. More information about the ministry and upcoming events can be found at fhsuchallenge.info.