The Iowa State University student-run Veishea celebration returns this week after being canceled last year due to riots in 2004. Veishea co-chair Eric Peterson says this year’s theme is “Celebrate Iowa State” as they bring the celebration back for its 84th year. He says they’ve tried to preserve the traditions of Veishea, like the parade and cherry pies, while also creating some new traditions. Peterson says a history exhibit is one of the new traditions they’ve created.
Peterson says the reworking of Veishea has tried to make it more of a community event. He says it’s and Iowa State celebration, but he says a lot of people have a connection to the university, including the entire Ames community, people who love to watch the I-S-U basketball team. Peterson says they want to “reconnect those people to Iowa State.”
While they’re trying to make it a community event, Peterson says they’re also trying to stay focused on the events roots — which started as a way to highlight the programs at the school. He says most of the events are being held on campus as he says they try to put the focus back on campus. Peterson says they’re also focusing more on academics.
Peterson says over 300 students have put in thousands of hours to make this event a success. Peterson says, “We know that all eyes are on us, we really do. But we want to do is create a positive, successful celebration. And we’re positive that this will be a positive celebration.” Veishea runs today (Monday) through Sunday.