Students disappointed by weekend music changes at Wingate Social House

By ATHENA GARCIA

Triangle Contributor

Over recent Saturdays, students at Wingate University have shown up to the Wingate Social House expecting the typical music-filled atmosphere, only to be met with silence. While the 204 N. Main St. venue hasn’t changed its operating hours, recent adjustments in scheduling have left many students feeling disappointed with their usual weekend gathering spot and searching for more. 

The Social House, which opened in 2024 and has grown in clientele and been generally well-received overall, has begun hosting live music earlier in the evening, usually between the hours of 7-10 p.m. on Saturday, drawing in an older, non-student crowd. However, by the time the students arrive at 11 p.m., the performances have already ended, as has the music. Without at least a DJ to entertain, the once-lively space feels noticeably different.

 For many students, Saturday nights at Social are a key part of campus life and something students look forward to after a long week of classes and stress. Students say they don’t necessarily mind the addition of live music but the issue is in the lack of transition afterward. 

Freshman Zay Vick, a Criminal Justice major from Gainesville, Va., who plays on the Wingate basketball team, shared his view on the recent changes. “I walked in expecting a fun night and left within minutes because there were crickets in there,” he said. “It’s not the Social we usually have. It’s not even about getting rid of the live music; we just want something after.” 

With limited nightlife options near campus, the Social House plays an important role in providing students with a place to unwind and socialize.

“Now we are resorting to hanging out on the lawns, which usually just gets ended by the sheriffs,” said Wingate sophomore Wyatt Johnson, a Criminal Justice major from Cutchogue, N.Y. 

These recent shifts have left some students feeling like their needs are being overlooked. Wingate students hope for a compromise, one that can allow live music to continue earlier in the evening, while still bringing back the energy and music students expect later in the night.