dancing away in the enchanted forest
From counting down the days to seeing gushing homecoming proposals on Instagram, this moment in the school year unites students for a momentous night. Homecoming is a flashy occasion where students can dress up and enjoy themselves mingling with friends under the starry night while celebrating a new school year. The homecoming was a smashing hit among students in the floral makeover, as students were scattered everywhere from places from the dance floor to eating pizza in the cafeteria. The entrance was decorated with floral designs placed from every inch for an angelic night. With the innovation quad used as the dance floor, students could dance around the clock with lights flashing from every angle. Popular mainstream songs filled the air from the DJ stand, brought by SOS entertainment, playing throwbacks yet blending some beats to accentuate the evening with a fun vibe. Students used the dance floor to their advantage and created moshpits during almost every song as many if not all were jumping up and down for the music.
The Discovery building featured an enchanted hidden touch, a red carpet transforming into a runway with marquee lights, spelled out, ‘Hoco 24’ celebrating the new school year with the seniors in the final moments of Samo's life. Just next to the big stairs, photobooths were placed outside with fun props to use soaking up the moment as photo strips printed. Near the cafeteria, games ranging from poker to Pac-Man were used throughout the night as an alternative activity for students to experience.
In the cafeteria, decorated green tables were scattered around, creating a relaxing atmosphere for students to eat Chic-fil-A or enjoy some Domino's pizza at the temptation of reaching for other hot snacks like tater tots or cooling refreshers like ice cream. While students took a break from dancing, many found themselves at the popcorn station or getting some cookies to take the edge off. Once refueled with energy, students made their way back to the dance floor as if no time had passed at all. Before homecoming season rolled around, students at Samo got to dress for the theme ‘Enchanted Forest’.
This year, homecoming took place on October 19, and students had other special events throughout Spirit Week. Other activities such as the Hoco Carnival, Pep Rally, and Homecoming game are also for the entertainment of students. In preparation for homecoming, ASB members have been putting together all the exclusive activities they have in store for a magical night in the enchanted forest. Head Activities Committee member Aubrielle Gomez (’26) gave a behind-the-scenes look at this year's homecoming design. “Everything is planning out great, so there's nothing to worry about. We’ve been planning since last school year and started before school, making this our biggest event of the year.” Gomez said.
As the DJ closed the night, the song, ‘We Are Young’ by Fun, was played while students united with their flashlights. Nostalgia rushed back from 2012 and created a new great memory of homecoming with the enchanted forest lingering away. Jolie Jurenka (’25) shares her experience with this year's homecoming celebration as one of her last memories of senior year, “I had an amazing time with my boyfriend and friends, it wasn’t my first time but it was definitely my favorite hoco at Samo. The walkway into the dance was great and overall exceeded my expectations.” Jurenka said.
Sam Kaplan Fernandez / Contributor
Students gather over a game of UNO for some friendly competition, sharing snacks and taking a break from the homecoming dance.