Given the lack of a traditional spring break for Huskers this year, a handful of campus units and departments at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln are giving students a chance to “break out” from being stuck inside buildings and behind laptop screens by enjoying several hours of fun and relaxation.

From 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. March 29, students are invited to a free midday Spring Breakout festival on the Nebraska Union’s outside plaza and green space. The festival’s games, music and activities will include:

• Coloring station
• Soccer kick
• Inflatable bowling
• Bubble station
• Bag toss and hopscotch
• Basketball shootout
• Football toss
• Well-being and self-care activities

“Everything at the festival is about students having enjoyment and fun, even for just 10 or 30 minutes or the entire two hours,” said Veronica Riepe, director of Student Leadership, Involvement and Community Engagement. “Staff and faculty recognize the strong effort Huskers have been giving in the classroom and in the community and adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic. Students need to take some real breaks to refocus and recharge their inner energy, so we’re organizing an entertainment break that they can enjoy together.”

In addition to the games, 300 free T-shirts will be given away to participating students. Music will be provided by DeWayne.

COVID-19 safety precautions will be firmly in place throughout the event. Games and activities will be spaced apart to both promote physical distancing and reduce crowding. Though it is an outside event, students should take personal responsibility to wear face masks and use common social-distancing practices. Hand sanitizer will be available at several locations within the event space.

Spring Breakout is sponsored by UBT, in partnership with Student Leadership, Involvement and Community Engagement; the Nebraska Unions; Career Services; Military and Veteran Success Center; The Daily Nebraskan; Big Red Resilience and Well-being; CARE; Fraternity and Sorority Life; the LGBTQA+ Center; the Women’s Center; Campus Recreation; and University Libraries.