McDonald’s’ dollar menu is an indisputable contender, if not a champion, in the fast-food value arena, and likewise, its crispy golden fries are the pinnacle of fast food sides. Their food, while certainly not good for the body, is good for the soul, for the nights hanging out with friends on the cheap, the vibes of chilling in your car in the parking lot, listening to music, and chowing down on sodium and grease packaged in a quaint yellow and white wrapper. Another similar feeling of simple bliss and good times with friends comes in the form of bonfires on a chilly night, perfect for any occasion whether it be the main event or the after party of another. It’s strange, then, that two activities both known for their memory-making potential and laid-back approach to socialization have never crossed paths, at least not that is documented. That has changed.
The occasion, the biggest crossover event possibly of the entire academic year, nearly didn’t happen. EMU’s CAC originally had the April 2 event slated for an evening bonfire with free frosties, where students could enjoy the company of friends and warmth while enjoying a goodie. A cold front changed those plans, making the bonfire aspect even more enticing but the frosties less so; logically, the frosties were swapped for McDonald’s french fries. This decision made the crossover even more sudden and even more historic.
After a provocative conversation about the best fast food fries, spurred by the change to fries, Tyler Goss ultimately felt that “students would like Chick-Fil-A fries better, but McDonald’s is more efficient for the money.” It’s worth noting that he later admitted to not being a big fry connoisseur, and as students huddled around the fire, small fry bags in hand, discussing their Easter plans and lives over the sounds of a didgeridoo being played, the decision felt like a good one.
Second-year Luke Wheeler seemed content with the results and said this of the experience: “A little bit cold, but the fries are warm, very tasty. I just came from basketball practice so I went from being hot to cold pretty fast. It’s pretty much a ticking time bomb before I go inside to get warm.” He stayed long enough to finish his fries and strike up a conversation with friends and peers.
Several CAC members also reflected on the overall sentiment of bonding over campfires and the effectiveness of these types of social settings in inspiring interaction and creating a community, with second-year Seth Harmer noting his love for this community aspect of bonfires and connecting with people through telling stories.
Third-year Isaac Andreas continued this thought. “I love campfire events, they’re just a perfect way to hang out and talk to people, or stand in the corner quietly.” He did both with expertise.
It’s impossible to imagine the world without McDonald’s and bonfires, for better or for worse, but as students and members of the EMU community shared warmth, french fries, and stories with each other, the world, or at least our small slice of it, seemed in balance, at peace, and as alive with heart and friendship as ever.
