St. John's student here. There is a good amount of student interest about they event, but it also comes down to the school. You have student groups that receive funding and should focus their efforts on this, but neglect it. As has been previously stated, there should a full day of events prior to Tip-Off. There is a "stormfest" during the first week of school that would be a lot more exciting if held on Oct. 12.
Others are doing what they can. For those attending, WSJU (the student radio station) will be doing a live broadcast from 5-7pm outside Carnesecca on the evening of Oct. 12. So, right there, there will be more going on than in the past. There will be giveaways and interviews as well.
Lastly, regarding the beer thing, I wish it were still how you all say it was regarding the bar on and events. Now, if you get caught with a beer on campus (21 or not), you may as well be a felon.