Calling all new social secs: Social ideas we must see on the Triangle next year

With AGM season upon us, a whole new cohort of social secs are about to take over the reins of society nightlife. We’ve seen enough scavenger hunts and white lies socials this year (which I’m not complaining about), but we definitely need some fresh ideas to spice things up. I’m expecting to see all these ideas out on the Triangle next year – or now if you’re running low on ideas to get you to the end of the year. 

S’mores at Turbo Island 

A sober social designed to introduce freshers to truly iconic Bristol landmark, I think the Turbo Island “firepit” is an underutilised resource. Imagine toasting marshmallows and jelly (if you know you know) with an ambient soundtrack of DnB, soaking up the culture of Stokes Croft. Get those campfire songs ready for a serious bonding experience.

Blindfolded ‘trust crawl’ 

You might be able to claim you can neck a pint – but can you sink one blindfolded? With everyone pairing up, one person guiding and the other blindfolded, a blind pub crawl adds some drama to an otherwise standard social at Steam. The actual drinking is only half of the challenge – try getting a group of tipsy, blindfolded people into a packed Wednesday WG – good luck. 

Dress as your first year accommodation 

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We’re all familiar with the first year stereotypes that come with what accommodation you were in. I’m talking about University Halls and Wills Hall specifically – so why not play into them? Hiatt Baker DJs, Wills and Churchill residents in quarter-zips, Schoffels and skinny scarfs. Even if you think your accom lacked a defined personality, you can definitely get creative. I’m thinking dress as a river for Riverside, wear all gold for Goldney or wear your best suit for Courtrooms. 

Invade the Wills Dining Hall

Like something straight out of Oxbridge, I think the Wills Dining Hall is an under appreciated venue. Maybe host the poshest pub quiz you can, with rounds on wine, Waitrose and even guess the private school. If that’s not your thing, why not lean into the vibe of the place and have a medieval feast?

With committee on the head table and freshers acting as court jesters you could bring Wills back to its glory days. Soundtrack the night with flute versions of your favourite pop songs, and bring back old English – oh esteemed social sec, whence do we journey yonder to ye olde Brass Pig?

Tarts and vicars 

A true classic from the iconic Bridget Jones, make sure this is a theme that doesn’t get cancelled on the day. Bunny ears, fishnets and dog collars are all mandatory, worn with the highest heels you’ve got. Gender-swapping this one could create some real sights too, perfect for the Triangle. 

Uob vs UWE Varsity 

Having experienced varsity darts, it’s clear the UoB-UWE rivalry is thriving. Organise a competition between you and your sister society – it could be as simple as rock, paper, scissors – and let the drama play out. Bring banners and the best chants you can come up with, then infiltrate Gloucester Road, invade Whiteladies or choose neutral ground in the city centre, just make sure the conflict’s finished by the club. 

The Traitors  

Turn the show into a pub crawl, with murders taking place inbetween stops and elimination votes done over a drink. Hooded cloaks and Claudia Winkleman wigs make the perfect dress code – I’m expecting eyeliner and fake tan on everyone to complete the look too.  

Dress as your ex 

We’ve all seen dress as your type – but why not dress as someone you never want to see again? The goal is to violate them as much as possible, dressing as the worst version of them possible. Why did you date them? You’ll have no idea. 

Cult meeting on the Downs

Looking for a creative new way to initiate next year’s freshers into your society? Find the next full moon, tell everyone to wear a mask, find a candle and head up to the downs for an initiation ceremony. Come up with some chants to set the atmosphere and write out an oath for new members to swear to.

You could even mourn the loss of last years committee and swear in your next leaders, making sure all the freshers bow down to you as the new social sec. You’ll definitely be fighting the cult allegations after this one.

The high street social 

Try a new spin on “anything but clothes”, with everyone dressing up as a different high street shops, using all the shopping bags you can get your hands on. Props are essential (don’t forget your Tesco Clubcard), with the crazier the outfit the better. I can’t wait to see someone dressed as Clifton Sainos in Brass Pig. 

Doppelgängers 

It’s time to put those celebrity lookalike allegations to good use, dressing up as your doppelgänger. With last year’s lookalike competition craze, you can hold your own version, deciding which of your society members looks most like an A-lister. They have to be honest though – forfeits are required for the worst claims. 

Formal night at Urban Tandoor

Why not spice up your normal formal location? A Bristol institution at this point, it would only be right to end the term on a high. Chicken korma mixed with your finest formal attire sounds like a great combination, with prizes for whoever can handle the hottest curry. It’s a naan-negotiable.

Parents/grandparents 

Missing your parents after weeks away from home? Want to take a family social to the next level? Why not dress up as your own parents? I’m expecting the charity shops to be raided for clothes that make you look over 50, reading glasses and all. Drinks have to fit with the theme too – red wine and ale only if you really want to commit.

Alternatively, grandparents are an even funnier option – especially if you can get your hands on a walking stick or a Zimmer frame. They won’t understand but your mum will love the pictures I promise.