Marist is kicking off spirit week leading up to the main event, the junior-senior dance, on October 11 following the football game on October 10. Freshmen and sophomores had their dance on Saturday, October 4.
This year’s homecoming theme is “Maristpalooza,” with the intention of replicating Lollapalooza, a popular music festival held in Chicago every summer. Students can expect additional dancing areas, food, places to take photos and live DJs, including Mr. Mike Brennan.
Spirit Week: October 6–10
Before the upperclassmen’s dance on October 11, students will celebrate by ditching the dress code and following the theme for that day. There is a chance to show school spirit by participating.
Monday – Opening Act: Pajamas
Tuesday – Tour Stop Tuesday: Represent a city, state, sports team, or vacation spot
Wednesday – Leid Back: Hawaiian and tropical gear
Thursday – USA Day: Red, white, and blue
Friday – Main Stage Marist:
Freshmen: White Marist gear
Sophomores: Gray Marist gear
Juniors: Red Marist gear
Seniors: Black Marist gear
This week gives students the ability to showcase their RedHawk pride as well as feel a sense of community.
Bigger Venue, Bigger Energy
One of the major changes for the dances this year is using both the Hynes gym and the Main gym, which doubles the available space. This will help keep the dance floor less crowded.
To organize the flow of students easier, all attendees will enter through the Hynes gym doors this year. Inside, students will have access to two gyms, each set up almost the same.
“We have not had both gyms open in previous years so I’m excited to be able to go through both gyms. I’m also excited it will not be as crowded as previous years,” said senior Aubrey Rowe.
Food, Music, and Festival Vibes
For the first time, food will also be available at the dance.
“We’re doing chicken tenders, French fries, and tater tots…from the cafeteria,” said Patrick Meyer, the organizer of the dance.
Students can grab a quick bite between songs instead of waiting until after the event.
Another new addition is a photo booth.
“There will be a lot of cool backdrops that the art club is making,” said Meyer.
Tickets and Details
Tickets are available now. The cost is $35 per person and $70 a couple. Students must buy tickets in advance and turn in forms in the main office.
Two Nights, Same Tradition
Having the dance on two weekends makes sure all grade levels can celebrate and not be overly crowded considering Marist has nearly 1600 students as well as many bringing dates. For underclassmen, October 4 is a chance to experience their first high school tradition. For upperclassmen, October 11 is the highlight of their fall semester. For seniors, it’s one of their last chances to enjoy Marist’s biggest event.
“I feel like I’m getting something out of the money I’m spending on my ticket with food included,” said Rowe.
Bulletin board outside the cafeteria (Kailynn Solis)
