Pekin Community High School (PCHS) will be holding their Homecoming Dance on Oct. 11 at the school. During Homecoming week, October 6-11, there are several events that lead up to the dance. These include class games throughout the week, spirit theme days, powder puff football, the pep rally, the parade, the football game, and finally the dance.

This year's theme, Enchanted Garden, was chosen by over 700 students. Students voted during the last week of August; there were four options on the ballot.  

Senior student Boston Powell shared that "the new theme sounds different from all of the others, and I have high hopes for this year's theme." 

During the week of Homecoming, the Student Council (STUCO) hosts games during lunch for students to earn points. These points will determine who will win the Spirit Stick, get bragging rights, and, most importantly, get to leave the pep rally first. 

Along with the Class Games, STUCO also plans the spirit week that will match the Homecoming theme. The daily dress-up themes inspire students to have fun, while also supporting their school colors. 

The tradition of powder puff football came about during World War II in 1940, in response to the shortage of male players for the traditional Homecoming football game. At PCHS, girls from each class sign up to play against one another. The winners will get class points that contribute to pep rally totals. 

Friday is packed with activities, including the pep rally. This event features games, mini dance parties, and tons of laughter and fun. The band plays at the beginning as students start to pile into their dedicated class sections. Towards the end of the event, the spirit stick and the Homecoming court are announced.

Senior student Kyleigh Veach believes that “the best game played during the Pep Rally is Bring it on Down. Where students have to find an object in their bookbag that matches the item the M.C.s call out.”

The parade follows the pep rally. It highlights clubs, activities, and organizations throughout the school and community. The Homecoming court is also recognized in the parade. Junior high schools are also featured in the parade. 

The day concludes with the football game where the Pekin Dragons will face the Canton Little Giants. The dedicated student section, known as The Fire Pit, will be showing their support by wearing country-themed costumes. 

Junior student Rachel Connell explains that “the most difficult part of planning the homecoming dance was picking out themes and finding decorations to go with it.”

The eventful week ends with the Homecoming Dance. STUCO decorates the cafeteria, and students have a magical evening dedicated to having fun with their friends in a safe environment.

In the end, Homecoming Week is very eventful and exciting for both the students and the staff. It’s one of the most anticipated weeks of the school year, and a lot of hard work goes into it.