LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. – On Friday, Sept. 19, students lined up on a red carpet for this year’s Homecoming dance. The event followed the annual Homecoming football game, with the theme “Party in the USA.”

As soon as everyone arrived, the dance floor became the center of attention. Students danced to the DJ’s hits filled with themed songs like Miley Cyrus’ “Party in the USA” and 2Pac’s “California Love.” The energy was infectious, with everyone singing along and enjoying the upbeat atmosphere.

“My favorite part was the DJ. The atmosphere was so hype and I had a lot of fun,” said a freshman at Los Alamitos High School.

One of the changes for this year’s Homecoming dance was the casual dress code. While some students still chose to wear semi-formal outfits, many opted for a more casual look, sporting red, white and blue apparel. This dress code created a laid-back vibe, allowing everyone to feel comfortable without the stress of getting ready.

“I decided to wear casual clothes because I went to the football game, but it made the dance feel more laid back,” said  Morgan Kelsey, a sophomore at LAHS.

Beyond the dance floor, there were several other fun activities to keep everyone entertained. A photo booth was set up, featuring funky props like mustaches, signs and leis, encouraging friends to pose for silly pictures together. The instant prints provided perfect keepsakes, capturing cherished moments that students could take home to remember the night.

For those looking to take a break from dancing, there were friendly competitions in ping pong and foosball, drawing in groups of enthusiastic players who cheered each other on. The event also featured virtual reality headsets and video games, providing an immersive gaming experience that kept everyone engaged and entertained. 

To make the evening better, there was a candy bar filled with an assortment of sweet treats that caught everyone’s eye, while the cookies provided a comforting touch. Guests enjoyed meals from the Tiki Burger food truck, which served up flavorful bites. Chips were also available with the burger, and to keep everyone refreshed, there was a vast selection of soda and water.

As the night came to a close, the celebration felt like a true success, reflecting the school spirit and energy among students. With smiles and laughter all around, this year’s Homecoming dance was not only a memorable event but also a wonderful way to kick off the school year. The dance ended with the song, “Starships” by Nicki Minaj, as the DJ wished the seniors a happy final Homecoming.