Every year in may, the senior class of Loy Norrix can be found buzzing with adrenaline and relief, as they put on their caps and gowns and cross the stage at Wings Event Center, ending their high school journey.
After the emotional moments and congratulations from teary parents and relatives, there’s only one thing going on in most students’ minds. “I’m DONE, let’s celebrate!” But where might this celebration take place? That’s where Loy Norrix has you covered.
Welcome to Grad Bash, an all-night, school-sponsored last hurrah with all of your friends. According to Cheryl Knight, secretary to the principal and Grad Bash organizer, the location changes every year and is kept secret due to security concerns until the graduates arrive. The cost is around $40 for those who sign up in advance and $50 at the door. The students meet at Loy Norrix after graduation to checked in and then school buses drive them to the location. Typically they arrive by 9 or 10, stay out all night, and then ride back to LN in the morning around 5:30 a.m.
“As a parent, it’s a safe place for kids to go after graduation, for them to hang out with their friends one last time, to talk about the times they’ve had the last four years,” said Knight.  
For last year’s graduate Tiana Boyd, going to Grad Bash was definitely worth it. “We went to Craig’s Cruisers, and we were able to have access to all the attractions there, including trampolines, mini ninja warrior course, roller coaster, etc…” Boyd continued, “We had a card so we could play most of the games. We even had a buffet for a while and there were snacks the whole night. Overall, I had a really fun time and it was definitely worth it!”
Griffin Conley of the 2017 graduating class agreed.
“It was fun, a very long night but well worth going. I would say that it was the perfect way to end the year and see people one last time before college,” said Conley.
Conley also said he would recommend it for this years seniors.
“I would say that the parents did a great job planning it, and the fact that again, this might be the last time you see most of these people is going to be at this event. Grad Bash is also just a fun event to end four strenuous years of high school,” said Conley.
Boyd would also recommend it for similar reasons, and said, “This year’s seniors should definitely go. It’s fun and it’s like your last high school memory with everyone from the past four years and it’d be dumb to miss out. Plus, the places they chose usually go over well for everyone.”
According to Knight, there are many different activities to do at Grad Bash. Over the past few years there have been nail stations, tarot card readers, magic shows, caricature artists, massage therapists, DJs and karaoke. There are also simple things like places to sit and chat or watch a movie, and every year there are raffles and prizes.
As for the planning of Grad Bash, it usually takes all year and many fundraisers. Parents and volunteers work concessions to come up with most of the money, and some parents donate as well. To donate to Grad Bash or ask questions email [email protected].
All in all, Grad Bash is a fun and nostalgic activity that you won’t want miss as a senior.