AUK holds a Costume Party to celebrate Halloween

Duhok, Kurdistan Region – November 1st, 2021 – Organized by the American University of Kurdistan’s newly-elected student government, on October 31, the lower ground floor of AUK’s building was turned into a haunted house for this year’s Halloween party.

Before the official party began, a mini-event was held for children. Faculty, staff and students brought their children and younger siblings, dressed in spooky costumes and colorful faces, for the annual pumpkin carving.

By sunset, the first students in costume arrived at AUK, and it was time for a memorable celebration.

The Escape Room Company, based in Duhok, was engaged to set up a special “Halloween Fright Night”. This themed labyrinth, which students had to escape by finding clues and puzzles, featured a makeshift cemetery full of skeletons, scary witches, a butcher’s corner and special COVID-19 items. Another partner, Mish-Mish, provided ice-cream and catering for the party.

Our in-house DJ began the night by playing a selection of terrifying music, electrifying the building in true Halloween spirit, as AUK students entered the smoke-filled hall. Afterwards, the music shifted to a mix of the latest international songs, rocking the night away. Finally, true to tradition, at the end of the party the audience requested traditional Kurdish dance music, bringing the mood to a boil.

“For the past few years, AUK’s Halloween party has been an eagerly awaited event, and this year was no different. AUK students never fail to impress with their creativity: their costumes were fantastic! Add to that the spooky decorations, the pumpkin carving, and of course the Halloween themed treats – it was a night to remember!” said Nadine Aldahleh, AUK’s Student Affairs Manager.

While the party was in full swing, AUK students Sahar Saleem and Sakra Hasan were invited to a special Halloween show on Waar TV, to discuss the history of Halloween and AUK’s acclaimed parties.

AUK’s annual Halloween parties are renowned in Duhok and Kurdistan. In 2019, more than 200 students participated, with the occasion covered by several local media outlets.