As the 2025-26 school year goes on, students might need a break from all the work and assignments. Students and staff look forward to fun events, like Homecoming. At Hoco, a very important detail that people like to pay attention to is outfits and the theme. The theme choices to vote from this year were Coraline, Hocus Pocus, and Stranger Things. All the options were very popular among students, and not many knew what to vote for. Freshman Adriana Rich says, “I voted for Hocus Pocus. I thought that I had more options for my dress with this theme. When I think of Hocus Pocus, I think of bright Halloween colors. But when I think of Coraline, I think of gloomy colors and a dark setting because that’s how the movie was, and I don’t want my first homecoming to be remembered as those gloomy colors.” With such creative themes to choose from, everyone’s excited to find out which one wins and what kind of looks will light up the dance floor this year. 

After a lot of voting, students have chosen Coraline as the theme. There has been positive feedback about the theme. Many students have shared their excitement about the choice, including Kimora Williams, who is a sophomore. She says, “My thoughts on the theme are more positive. When I first heard that the theme would be Halloween-related, I wasn’t really feeling it because it sounded boring at first. But once I found out that it was Coraline, my whole perspective shifted, as it’s one of my favorite movies and definitely a childhood favorite of mine.” Many students say they like the theme because it’s different from typical homecoming choices and gives the event a creative twist.

Homecoming can be exciting for some students, as it can be their first time going. Adriana Rich, who is a freshman, says, “I am very excited, because it is my first homecoming as a little baby freshman”. For many freshmen, this event marks the start of new memories and traditions. While most students have gone to hoco before, they say it’s still something to look forward to each year. For example, sophomore Maliya Trammel says, “I am looking forward to all the dancing and photos! I also hope that we have a good DJ this year.” Sophomore Kimora Williams has also been to homecoming before, and is just as excited as many others. She says, “I’m looking forward to having a great time with my friends. I think that moments like this are great for making amazing memories while we’re given the opportunity. 

Dressing up and picking outfits are a big part of hoco that is taken pretty seriously. Some people like to look online for inspo, while some like to browse in stores. Dressing up for hoco doesn’t only include buying a dress, but also styling it in your own way. Freshman Sophia Alas says, “I was looking online for a dress similar to one I had saved on Pinterest. The dress I wanted to wear was light pink with a pretty floral design. I chose it because I think that it would look really good with a pair of heels and a flower headpiece that I already own”. Dressing up gives everyone a chance to show off their own style and creativity. 

As for preparation, many like to spend their whole day getting the perfect look for hoco. Like grabbing dinner with friends, getting ready together, etc. Many like to get ready with a group of friends. Sophia Alas, who is a freshman, says, “Before hoco, I am going to shower about 4 hours before the party. After showering, I am going to have lunch with friends, and then start getting ready with them too. We will then all go together to hoco and have fun!” Some people like to get ready by themselves, which I think can give them more personal time. Freshman Sophia Whitesell says, “Before I get ready, I will get a sweet treat from Starbucks. I will then shower, do my hair, makeup, put on my dress, jewelry, and shoes.” No matter how people choose to get ready, the preparation is all part of the fun. 

In the end, Homecoming is more than just a dance. It’s about spending time with friends, feeling confident, and having fun. Whether it is picking out the perfect outfit, getting ready together, or dancing all night, every moment adds to the excitement. I hope that everyone enjoys homecoming!