UW-Madison students have lost one of their most celebrated yearly traditions as the City of Madison shuts down the annual Mifflin Street Block Party due to Gov. Tony Ever’s extended stay-at-home order.
However, many students still plan to celebrate — at home.
On April 23, one week after Evers’ order was extended, the Mifflin Street Block Party 2020’s Facebook group name was changed to “Mifflin #StayHome Party 2020.” Sponsored by Wisconsin RED, the event will take place on the same day as the original scheduled block party.
“It's incredibly important that everyone STAY HOME during these times. No Mifflin Street gathering will occur,” the Wisconsin RED’s Facebook site said. “However, it's also extremely important that we keep the spirit alive — so this year, let's do things a little differently: let's come together in a virtual community and a ‘Mifflin #StayHome Party.’”
UW-Madison student and representative on the Associated Students of Madison’s finance committee Sam Jorudd is one of over 2,000 students planning on celebrating at home.
Jorudd said the 2019 Mifflin Street Block Party was one of his most favorite college memories. Now, he’s eager to catch up with friends virtually at Mifflin this year, as his past few weeks have been filled with online classes and exams.
“For me, it's about continuing on with the culture,” Jorudd said. “I’m just sitting at home right now, so why not have a little fun.”
Event organizers are encouraging students to share videos of how they are celebrating Mifflin at home with the hashtag #StayHome.
In order to ensure no one will be physically gathering for the block party, Madison police officers have gone door-to-door on Mifflin Street to discourage potential party-goers. Authorities say any nonresidents who gather will receive citations for at least $367.
"While MPD has historically taken a fairly tolerant view of the Mifflin Street Block Party, this year is different," said Chief Vic Wahl. "Any parties or gatherings occurring are in violation of the Governor's 'Safer at Home’ order."
Madison police have also said they will be sharing any information on students participating in the block party with the UW-Madison Dean of Students.
The virtual #StayHome Party 2020 will take place April 25 from 8 a.m.- 6 p.m.
