Penn State, State College police preparing for State Patty’s Day this weekend. What to know
A “substantial police presence” is expected around State College between this Friday and Sunday, in an effort to curb the annual return of State Patty’s Day, a student-created drinking holiday that police say typically results in more crime, more criminal arrests and more alcohol overdoses.
Both Penn State and State College Borough announced, in a joint news release, they plan to work with surrounding local police departments throughout the weekend. The university even mentioned the presence of state police, while an open letter explained that officers would “assertively patrol for violations.”
“Our primary focus is maintaining the safety and well-being of our community,” Penn State Vice President for Student Affairs Andrea Dowhower said in a written statement. “Through our continued collaboration with students and local partners, we hope to minimize the disruptive impacts of this event and encourage responsible decision-making. Our goal is for everyone to have a safe and enjoyable weekend.”
State Patty’s has occupied a space among Penn State’s most infamous traditions for nearly two decades. The annual event started in 2007 when the traditional St. Patrick’s Day celebration fell during students’ spring break. Even in future years, when the traditional Irish holiday fell outside spring break, students never stopped celebrating State Patty’s.
Although still a concern, the impact of the student holiday has declined considerably since its heyday. In 2011, more than 300 arrests were made during the three-day event. Last year, the number of arrests was reduced to 36, including two DUIs, according to borough spokesperson Kayla Lafferty.
A recent joint news release by Dowhower and State College Borough Manager Tom Fountaine asked members of the State College Tavern Owners Association to treat State Patty’s like “any other weekend.” It encouraged no drink specials, no extended hours and no themed promotions.
Similarly, other preventive actions have already been taken both on- and off-campus. Fraternities have been asked to “voluntarily” limit social events, on-campus residence halls will enforce a one-guest-per-room policy, and off-campus property managers have been asked to increase staff presence and discourage parties.
“Keeping the community safe and welcoming is always one of the borough’s top priorities,” Fountaine said. “By taking proactive steps, we can reduce the strain on community resources, including Mount Nittany Medical Center, local law enforcement and emergency medical services.”
The university also used its customary warnings and pleas for responsible behavior to remind students any criminal violations will be forwarded to its Office of Student Accountability and Conflict Response for potential disciplinary action.
However, Penn State was quick to add that state law protects students from prosecution for consumption, or possession, of alcohol when seeking help for friends who are unconscious because of over-consumption.
CDT reporter Bret Pallotto contributed to this report
This story was originally published February 26, 2025 at 12:21 PM.
