For the first time since COVID-19, the annual PHS homecoming dance came back to the school’s football field. This new location promised a brand new and exciting experience, departing from the traditional gymnasium setting.
“The dance was really fun,” sophomore Eesha Pradhan said. “The fireworks near the end of it was a really exciting surprise.”
Along with two food trucks in the parking lot of the stadium, hosting pizza and ice cream to buy, homecoming truly held a special surprise at the end of the night for all students. With a fireworks display right above the football field, students were able to experience a magical display.
“I really think that this can be a much more fun experience than we’ve ever had coming in,” head of Student Council James Nowak said. “But my guess is, when this is done, people are going to want us to do this every year.”
Nowak’s optimism reflects the growing excitement surrounding this year’s homecoming. The decision to move the event into an open-air setting was partly driven by the desire to offer students something interesting and different. With the open space of the football field, the fresh air and a sky filled with stars, many are hopeful that it will create a memorable night that stands out from previous years.
“It was really more up to our administration,” Nowak said. “Once we decided it was going to be outside, they really took the lead in saying, if we’re going to do it outside, this is the safest spot for us to have it.”
While some students were enthusiastic about the prospect of an outdoor homecoming dance, Nowak acknowledged that the final decision to host the event on the football field was made entirely by the administration. Prioritising safety and logistical concerns, the administration took full control of the venue selection process, leaving students without a direct role in the final decision.
However, not all students are on board with the change of venue. Despite the initial excitement about the outdoor scene, some students have expressed dislike and disinterest.
“I really don’t like the idea of having the dance outside,” sophomore Sophia Vrbancic said. “I’m worried that being outdoors won’t be as fun or comfortable as the gym.”
Vrbancic’s opposition towards the idea reflects a broader feeling among the rest of the students who feel the football field venue lacks the familiarity and tradition of the previous location being in the gym.
Only time will tell how this new approach will be edited, but this time, the Palatine High School community was ready for a night that could change the future of homecoming celebrations.
