[media-credit name=’JEFF SCHORFHEIDE/Herald photo’ align=’alignnone’ width=’648′][/media-credit]The University of Wisconsin sponsored a safe and alcohol-free alternative Saturday night for those who chose not to brave State Street’s Halloween festivities.

Saturday, as thousands of UW students geared up for the nighttime festivities, Union South was preparing for a little celebration of its own. The Halloween party was held at the Union South Games Room, starting at 8 p.m.

With a $5 entry fee, students were able to enjoy an alcohol-free night of popcorn, snacks, bowling, table tennis and pool until 2 a.m. Sunday morning.

Keith Claas, a UW senior who helped plan the event and was working at the Union South Game Room Saturday night, said he thought the event was a good idea.

"It gives students some other, safer things to do instead of the alternative," Claas said.

Claas, who did not work the event last year, said the event was easy to organize and did not involve too much work. However, he said it would have been nice for more people to come.

"I was told, based on last year, to expect only 20-25 people," Claas said. "Only about 12 turned up this year … not much of a turnout."

However, Claas said he is not too surprised at the lack of enthusiasm for the event.

"Considering where we are, it’s really not that surprising that not too many people come to events like this," Claas said. "We’re in Madison … it’s understandable, I guess."

Those who attended the event, however, said they enjoyed it and felt it was successful despite the low turnout.

"It’s just fun," UW sophomore Katt Blaze said after taking her turn at bowling. "And we’re all just having a great time spending time together."

UW sophomore Betsy Solom said they agreed the event was a good alternative to Freakfest on State Street. The unlimited bowling, table tennis and pool offered at the event were also seen as a bonus.

"It’s really cold out, and all that crazy partying out on State Street isn’t really our scene,” Solom said. “This just seemed like it’d be more fun."