Sarah Dickens
Special to the Tribune/Advisor
The LCSS senior class of 2015 is still buzzing with animated talk regarding this year’s dry grad festivities.
The annual celebration took place at the Cariboo Memorial Recreational Complex, where many dedicated volunteers transformed the interior into a Night Circus-themed extravaganza.
The lavish décor, amongst many other features, included a winter white ice garden from Frozen, a striking fire-breather themed coffee bar, a hand-painted animal cage wagon, and a magical wishing tree hung with handwritten notes by fellow grads.
From the classic carnival game booths to the handmade Ferris wheel, dry grad decorations this year proved to be an incredibly detailed and dazzling success.
Adding to the spectacular display were the captivating circus acts throughout the night that showcased a magician, contortionist, juggler and hypnotist.
A memorable part of the night was witnessing many hypnotized grads attempt to revive a dead deer they had supposedly crashed into in their cars.
And if that wasn’t enough, one of the rinks was packed with inflatable big toys, obstacle courses, arcade games, a photo booth, and several carnival games, where participation earned teenagers tickets to win small prizes.
“There was never a dull moment. It was definitely a night to remember,” said Grade 12 student Ariel Zacharias.
Hunger was never worry with the abundance of donated food that was brought to the complex throughout the night. Several volunteers also ran a snack bar in the rink’s lobby that served smoothies, cotton candy, popcorn, snow cones and candy in case grads needed a sugar boost to last until their 5:30 a.m. pick up the next morning.
“It felt like we were at an all-inclusive resort,” said graduate Carly Magnuson.
“I’m so thankful that we have awesome volunteers who put in all that effort just for us.”
Near the end of the night, a draw for the grand prizes was hosted.
Badminton nets, blenders, sweatshirts, lanterns, iPads, kayaks and even a truck was given away.
Every grad also received a cooler filled with prizes to take home.
“You could clearly see the huge amount of work and labor put into this party,” added LCSS student, Jin Yang. “It exceeded every expectation in every way.”
A big enough thank-you to the Dry Grad Committee could not be given. It was an unforgettable night filled with memories the grad class of 2015 will not soon forget.
As one fellow grad said, “I never wanted the night to end. I wish I could have a dry grad every year!”
Sarah Dickens is a graduating student at Lake City Secondary School.