For those of you who haven’t heard about the UG lustrum or do not know what to expect - have no fear, I am going to explain what’s so exciting about the gala and why I am happy that it's happening while I am a student.

First of all, what is a lustrum?

Lustrum is a Latin word for a period of five years and is used in Dutch culture to describe a celebratory year. In this case, the University of Groningen has existed for 405 years and is, therefore, celebrating its 85th lustrum, so basically, it is the UG’s birthday party! The theme this lustrum is All Inclusive, striving to become even more inclusive, realizing that topics like diversity, inclusiveness, and equality can always be developed further.

So what is this gala all about?

What says celebration more than a big party? The UG is inviting students, staff and anyone else who'd like to come to celebrate its birthday on the 13th of June for the lustrum gala. Since this only happens every five years, this isn’t like your average gala. The theme isn’t like your static gala with black tie and ball dresses, this lustrum gala dress code is The Nineties! So pull out your favourite flared pants, put on your fluorescent tracksuit and leg warmers and neon yellow headbands. Back to the days of MTV, when Justin Timberlake had frosted tips, boy bands, and way-too-oversized clothing. The good thing about this is that if you’re still looking for an outfit, you can walk into any vintage store and put together your own 90’s creation.

What can I expect at this gala?

The gala will be thrown in Martiniplaza, a big events hall in the city. You might have been there for an exposition of even written an exam there - but this event will be like no other. DJ Joost van Bellen, who is the creator of the exclusive club RoXY in Amsterdam, will be playing at the gala. He is rumored to be one of the forefathers of Dutch techno music and “one of the most influential Dutch DJs abroad”, setting up the platform for the many generations of techno after him. Following the trend of electronic music, duo Guy & Roni will be performing, who is described as creating “mechanical ecstasy”. Some students who attended the Welcoming Ceremony might recognize him from his performance at the beginning of the school year. Lastly, Dutch singer Gerard Joling will be performing. He’s known as one of the most popular gay icons in the Netherlands, famous for his high-tone singing and his hilarious tv show with Gordon. Fun fact: he actually became famous by participating in the Eurovision Song festival in 1988 and again in 2009. Listen to his song Ticket to the Tropics to get an idea about just how the ’90s this party is going to get, I can promise you that it will be a very fun night that you shouldn’t miss.

Why should you go?

Well, if everything I’ve written before this hasn’t sold you yet, you should still definitely go to the lustrum gala. It only happens every five years, so there is a big chance that this is the only chance you’ll have in your study career. Go with a group of friends, shop for your perfect 90’s outfit (there is no such thing as too much glitter and spandex in the ’90s) and sing along to Joling’s greatest hits. I’ll even be going and I have an exam the next day so that just about sums up the level of expectation.

See you there!