As any engineer would be more than happy to tell you, college students are busy — not just a little preoccupied, but absolutely buried under an avalanche of homework, projects and exams. never mind the countless hours spent on Stumble upon or watching football — students will convince you there’s barely enough time to get work done, much less explore downtown.

Since many will only have a few opportunities to check out the discounts during 30 Days of Blacksburg, it’s important to know what’s worth your time. With that in mind, here is a completely subjective guide to some of the best Blacksburg has to offer. no matter where you choose to spend your hard-earned dollars, it’s impossible to go wrong with so many great options.

Week 1: She-Sha Cafe and Hookah Lounge (Oct. 5)

What better way to kick off an event intended to bring students and businesses together than with the ultimate fusion of college life and commerce? She-Sha Cafe and Hookah Lounge is a Blacksburg mainstay, popular for its multitude of tobacco flavors and relaxing atmosphere. As far as freshmen year cliches go, sitting around a hookah table with your dorm buddies is on par with highlighter parties and being forcibly evicted by an amorous roommate.

Hookah is only part of the She-Sha experience. the soothing ambiance coupled with authentic Middle Eastern menu and decor create a great atmosphere that even non-smokers can enjoy. She-Sha also serves as a welcome study alternative to the library or soul-crushing Math Emporium, provided you’re not the easily distracted type.  

Week 2: Pretty in Pink Fundraiser (Oct. 12)

Not all of the promotions during 30 Days of Blacksburg are intended solely for promoting businesses. on Wednesday, Oct. 12, there will be a downtown-wide fundraiser benefiting the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer foundation. ten percent of sales at locations such as Gillie’s, Mad Dog, Sharkey’s and Starbucks will go toward breast cancer research.

In addition, cupcakes and “pink passports” will be sold for $5 and $10 respectively for the opportunity to win prizes including tickets to the Lyric, a one-month unlimited pass to classes at in Balance Yoga and art from the Matrix Gallery. Participating locations will be marked with pink ribbons. More information, including a full participant listing, can be found at DowntownBlacksburg.com.

Week 3: PK’s Bar and Grill (Oct. 18)

Benny Marzano’s may have it beat for sheer size, but PK’s still holds the best of Blacksburg crown for tastiest pizza, and for good reason — the stuff is delicious. while every bar in Blacksburg is technically a restaurant as per Virginia law, PK’s rides that blurry line better than most.

Want to grab a drink and watch the game? PK’s has more TVs than the Architect in the “Matrix Reloaded.” looking to grab a good, affordable meal with family in town? Head on down and try the Italian Stallion specialty pie. Need a family meal and a stiff drink? of course you do — your parents are in town. Knock two birds out with one satisfying stone at one of Main Street’s best eateries.

Week 4: 310 Rosemont (Oct. 29)

If you belong to the demographic Lance Diamond would refer to as “frat stars,” 310 Rosemont is right up your aesthetic alley. the ostentatiously pastel look is not for everyone, but students who need their fix of margarita and salmon attire, not to mention the ever-popular fish belts, will feel right at home in this Main Street boutique.

Even with a 10 percent discount, 310 Rosemont is hardly light shopping. a starting point for most clothes is $50, with many reaching the $80 to $90 level. Hell, I spent $28 for a T-shirt last year. You’re paying for quality, however, and since new pledges are buying friends anyway, what’s another couple hundred for fresh digs?

A version of this article appeared in the Sep 30 issue of the Collegiate Times.

<a href="http://www.collegiatetimes.com/stories/18365/30-days-of-blacksburg-reviewtag:news.google.com,2005:cluster=http://www.collegiatetimes.com/stories/18365/30-days-of-blacksburg-reviewThu, 29 Sep 2011 04:42:05 GMT 00:00″>30 Days of Blacksburg review – CollegiateTimes.com