It started with the pins at the HICCUP, and then the signs showed up. Then it was the video during chapel. The much-hyped goat roast is inescapable.
On Saturday, Oct. 2, the annual Goat Roast took place at WGM (World Gospel Mission) from 4 pm-7 pm. Nearly 400 students, parents, staff and even alumni came for the goat steak and soup/stew.
Since 2006, the Goat Roast has been an annual event hosted by WGM on campus, bringing in large crowds with plenty to do. Walking over to WGM, you meet the sound of voices carried through the air: laughter, singing, conversation and yelling.
WGM started the event as a way to expose people to the events of different cultures around the world. Goat roasting is a highly popular cultural event in Africa; however, Africans typically eat their goat with bones.
The meat was purchased from Colorado since boneless goat meat cannot be found anywhere near Wilmore, KY, and Americans are not entirely accustomed to boned goat meat, according to James Ballard, the director of the WGM student center.
Preparations for the Goat Roast begin around seven in the morning as helpers prepare about 60 pounds of meat in stock pots with vegetables and seasoning, which is then cooked for most of the day.
Around 30 pounds of goat steaks were grilled for the event. Many of the other foods available are purchased elsewhere.
Ballard seemed happy and excited to see so many people come, and he greeted everyone with a smile and friendly conversation as they walked up.
Students hosted a tent near the entrance where they sold tickets for different activities. Caramel apples and cheesecake cost two tickets. Ale8 and the Box Maze of Doom were only one ticket.
Ballard claims the function of the tickets is purely to help with some of the costs for the event, but the group does not make a profit from the event.
The box maze is one of the most popular attractions at the Goat Roast. Its function is purely made up of Asburians—nothing cultural. Elaborate planning and teamwork go into the maze.
On the second floor of the building, the windows are covered with foil to prevent any light from entering. WGM staff and students spend 3-4 days constructing the maze out of cardboard and tape.
The removal of light makes the maze extra challenging, and it is a huge hit for children, especially. Running out of the maze, a child smiled and claimed he was able to memorize the maze and make it out after his fourth attempt.
Staff and students are able to watch through cameras displayed on a computer screen as participants navigate their way through the dark, twisty maze.
In addition to the maze, there was a photobooth with clothing and weapons from other cultures. People were able to try on these items and pose for a picture.
Worship team singers led live music on a stage where they sang various types of music, including songs from Taylor Swift and Justin Bieber.
There was also volleyball, cornhole, Kan Jam, Spikeball and more. Many tables were set, and people filled chairs as they enjoyed their meals and each other’s company.
Without the help of WGM staff, students, and “Goat Roast buddies,” as Ballard calls them, pulling off such a popular event would not have been possible. It is no wonder how the Goat Roast is such a hit each year.
