There’s just something about Sun God that tickles UCSD pink. People are downright giddy when it comes to that magical day when they traipse around campus before ending the journey at RIMAC Field for the musical finale of Sun God.
But experience lies within the travels, not only destinations, right? Needless to say, one can visit some out-of-the-ordinary spots on Sun God. On this day, when Tritons stop building shrines to their textbooks and instead tip their glass to the “bright, chicken-looking thing,” UCSD becomes a veritable Candyland with pockets of entertainment offered along the way.
From the Peppermint Stick Forest to the Gumdrop Mountains, it’s all there for the inebriated Gingerbread People who wander around campus, searching for places to rest (party) on their way to RIMAC Field, the Candy Castle.
So does that make Busta Rhymes King Kandy, the Imperial Bon Bon? He has been missing in action — just like in the real game — and it’s UCSD’s job to find him. It’s a rhetorical question to ponder while on the Candyland UCSD travels, and it’s also fun to dub Busta “the Imperial Bon Bon.”
Swing by the Rainbow Trail, otherwise known as the Snake Path, behind Geisel Library. There, other Gingerbread People gather to tip opaque cups and celebrate the day and the journey to the final destination.
And, ah yes, the jeweled stepping-stone path that just screams “Candyland.” At UCSD, this path is the Campus Loop, but this updated version features transportation so little gingerbread legs don’t get exhausted toddling around. Cruising shuttles are a transportable surprise; they carry red-nosed and jubilant passengers who are grateful for the free ride. Walk aboard and one will get a hearty welcome. Ride around and one will get some memories.
Take the jeweled path to several of the Gumdrop Mountains around campus. Ascend these, and at the summits of Tioga Hall in John Muir College, Argo Hall in Revelle College and more than one apartment building in Earl Warren College, there will be more cup-tipping and general merriment. More adventurous Gingerbread People will scale the H&SS building in Muir, but that spot is for seasoned Sun Godders.
Spots and spaces are not always the easiest to find (or escape). The staircases in Mandeville become the Molasses Swamp; it is simple to get in them, but sometimes can be difficult to find your way out. This labyrinth is a deliciously fun way to become “lost,” hide out and let loose. Undoubtedly, there will be others there ensconced in the staircases and relaxing, so make some friends.
Queen Frostine, who lives on an inviting iceberg, is a warm-hearted host to wayward Gingerbread People. She can be found all over UCSD on Sun God. While wandering, one can find obliging hosts, eager to welcome guests to their humble abodes otherwise known as dorms on non-Sun God days. The dorms, typically reserved for more refined activities, house some of the best times during this day.
All this strolling, meeting and greeting may work up an appetite, and candy isn’t going to quell that hunger so head to the Peanut Brittle House to get some grub and spirits. Porter’s Pub, as it’s known during the week, has all the beer on tap and food in flash-fryers one could need to re-energize. Take in a game of foosball then head on your merry way.
On Sun God, look out for more than just hot spots. Be aware of who is walking around. The Evil Lord Licorice lurks in the form of Campus Security Officers who are on the prowl to thwart those that are having too much fun. They, like the Evil Lord himself, have no souls and suffer from an ego trip, so no Gingerbread person is safe.
Also meandering around campus are muddle-headed Grandma Nutts. While in the board game of Candyland, Grandma Nutt is a lovable old coot, Nutts on Sun God are boisterous, obnoxious and sloppy drunk. These Nutts, like the Grandma, aren’t all there upstairs so try to keep your distance.
The Peppermint Stick Forest is near the end of the journey to Candy Castle. It is the glut of eucalyptus trees that stands just beyond RIMAC Field, but is a legendary gathering for those trying to squeeze in the last few moments before entering the gates of the Sun God concert. The Peppermint Stick Forest may be hazy at times, but if one forges through, Candy Castle is near.
Once in Sun God concert, the journey is complete. The Imperial Bon Bon will take the stage, freak some people out, and then all will be well in Candyland.
