While most students will spend this Friday drinking cans of Natty and taking shots of Sterling, there are more delicious ways to get W.I.L.D. Even the frattiest brothers must admit that drinking Natty all the time gets old. Why not buy a six-pack of a delicious beer to go with that case of Natty? I suggest any of the following: Schlafly, the quintessential St. Louis beer; Blue Moon, a college classic; Smithwick’s, an Irish ale alternative to Guiness; or Goose Island 312 Urban Ale, one of the most popular Chicago beers.

Another thrifty way to avoid trashy drinks is to buy a box of Franzia, which also allows the infamous game of tipping the box. For flavor, Sunset Blush is unparalleled, but Chillable Red is barely drinkable. Keeping your Franzia cold is the easiest way to keep it tasty, so be sure to have a fridge large enough to fit a box of wine.

Now for some quick mixed drink suggestions. Since quantity is more important than quality for W.I.L.D., consider a pitcher or bucket to make your mixed drinks.

The mojito, a Cuban classic, is perfect for a sunny afternoon. Since you’ll be adding sugar, mint and lime, cut costs and buy the cheapest white rum possible. A good balance of cheapness and quality is Admiral Nelson’s. For every shot of rum add about a shot-and-a-half of club soda and a tablespoon of sugar. Three tablespoons of sugar is about the same as a sugar packet. Stir your bucket and serve. The mojito is traditionally served in a highball glass. Add a wedge of lime and a few mint leaves to taste. Voila! A drink Fidel Castro would approve.

Similar to the mojito bucket, a margarita bucket is a great south-of-the-border option for the concert. Stores have premade margarita buckets, but if you want to make your own, simply get a large bottle of margarita mix and a fifth of tequila. A fun alternative to margarita mix is Minute Maid frozen limeade. If you have a blender, add three or four cups of ice and pour in the label-suggested amount of margarita mix and tequila (generally two cups for every shot). As for tequila suggestions, I’m utterly convinced that Sterling Tequila is just bottled ipecac, so splurge a little here and purchase some Cuervo. Limes and salt are a necessity as well. Simply cut a slit in a lime, rub the lime around the rim of your glass, then flip the glass over and rub it on a salt-filled plate (or common room table). It’s almost as good as going to a bar.

After your W.I.L.D. or DAYGLOW experience, drink water as much as possible.

Happy drinking!