Written by Tracey Xuan Nguyen
Being in the heart of morally conservative Southern California, home to upper-middle-class denizens, Irvine isn’t exactly what you might call a party town. No matter how much students might fight it, this young city is, ironically, already set in its old-fashioned ways. But, party animals, don’t fret—parties still abound both north and inland of Orange County. You just have to drive to them or find transportation elsewhere. Anaheim and LA are all within an hour’s driving distance, and if you don’t have a car, you can catch a ride on a frat bus (and drink on the way) if you’re off to one of their parties. Many students enjoy the serene, laid-back atmosphere of the Newport Beach bars such as the Tiki Bar.
Nightlife around campus does exist, but it’s mostly grounded in wholesome, straightedge fun—definitely nothing wrong with that. Although wild parties on campus aren’t unheard of, the campus disciplinary force is notorious for cracking the whip swiftly and harshly on underage drinkers. With a police station right by the housing areas, it’s hard for students who frequently throw parties to not receive some form of punishment. Just party smart, and you’ll have nothing to worry about. If you’re one of the busy people who don’t have time to party, you’re not alone, so you don’t have to feel like you’re missing out on anything.