Capturing the spirit of the night—Amiya, Nia, and Rya enjoy a moment of connection during the renaissance high school Homecoming dance.

By:Nia Stewart and Kai Knuckles

Renaissance High School students celebrated their 2025 Homecoming Dance in full Mardi Gras style on Saturday, October 11, at an off-campus venue, where hundreds gathered for a night of music, dancing, and dazzling decorations. The dance ran from 7:00 to 11:30 p.m. and featured purple, green, and gold lights, beads, remixes, and a high-energy dance floor that brought the spirit to life.

The venue was completely transformed to match the Mardi Gras theme. Students entered through a large balloon archway in festive colors and stepped into a room filled with fog, lighting effects, and decorations that included feathered centerpieces, masks, and strands of beads on every table and across the dance floor.

“The decorations were insane. It really felt like we were in New Orleans! ” said Victoria Tinch, 11th grade.

Spotlights swept across the venue, and a fog machine added dramatic flair, especially during high-energy songs. One of the most popular features was the photo shoot area, where students lined up to take pictures against a glittery purple backdrop with props like beads, feathered masks, and colorful hats.

“It was my first HOCO, and I didn’t expect it to look so magical,” said Gabriel Tinch, 9th grade. “Those purple and gold lights were everywhere.”

The DJ kept the dance floor packed, mixing current hits with throwback tracks and jazz remixes to fit the Mardi Gras mood. Peak dance moments happened throughout the night, with students forming circles and hyping each other up in the center.

“I got everyone hyped during the group dance,” said Jordan Alexander, 11th grade. “We made a whole circle and went off!”

Some of the most played songs of the night included “Sorry” by Beyoncé, “fukumean” by Gunna, “On My Mama” by Cash Kid, and “Wanna Be” by GloRilla & Megan Thee Stallion. At around 9:00 p.m., 10th grader Kenadi Austin took center stage in a dance circle, getting the entire crowd to cheer and join in.

“The DJ mixed in some classic jazz with dance tracks, which was actually pretty cool,” said Donovan Cheek, 11th grade. “It was different, but it worked.”

Fashion was a huge part of the night. Many students came dressed to match the theme, with green dresses, gold heels, purple ties, sequined outfits, and lots of Mardi Gras accessories like beads and feathered masks.

“Everyone looked amazing in their outfits,” said Alissa Beam, 11th grade. “I saw so many feathered masks and sequins. It was glamorous.”

The night wasn’t just about dancing, it was a chance for students to take a break from their usual routines, enjoy time with friends, and make lasting memories.

“Homecoming was so exciting and fun!” said Destinee Griffin, 10th grade. “I had a great time with my friends.”

Still, not everyone had the same experience. Some students mentioned the heat and the crowd made parts of the night overwhelming.

“Homecoming didn’t feel like past years,” said Caleb Marshall, 12th grade. “It was hot and crowded, and honestly, it just felt like a night out in nice clothes.”

Despite a few complaints, the overall vibe stayed positive and upbeat. The combination of themed décor, music, and student energy made the event one to remember.

“I loved the masks and beads,” said Riya Vyas, 11th grade. “They totally nailed the Mardi Gras vibe.”

As the final song echoed through the venue and the lights dimmed, students took one last chance to dance, snap pictures, and soak in the night.

“It was one of those nights where everyone just had fun,” said Jordan Alexander, 11th grade. “No drama, just dancing and good energy. That’s what Homecoming should be.”