By: Brandi Holder, October 3, 2025
On Friday, September 26 the students at Veterans Memorial High School brought the courtyard alive with amazing sights, sounds, and the smell of the annual Food Fest. This event was organized by a variety of student groups and organizations who turned the courtyard into a food market where they had the chance to serve various food items to not just raise funds, but also school spirit.
Students lined up at different booths in the courtyard to receive various items of food that far exceeded the usual cafeteria lunch. From loaded ramen cups from the cheer team that offered a customizable twist to your everyday ramen, to savory tamales from Heart club there was no lack of options to satisfy any student's cravings. The chick- fil- sandwiches provided by the Chick-FIl-A club proved to be a fan favorite with lines forming early, while the BBQ team who served flavorful hamburgers also seemed to be a huge hit. The fun did not stop at your everyday foods, various organizations showcased sweet treats such as paletas, chocolate covered fruit, and brownies highlighting both a loved school tradition, and individuality from each organization.
“It was a core memory for my senior year, and I loved seeing the pride it brought to our school.” said Senior Vice President Alyssa Fuentes. The celebration did not end at the food, it also showcased a sense of unity. Looking around you would notice tables filled with various students laughing, talking, sharing foods, and even students in the middle of the courtyard dancing to various songs including the Cupid Shuffle, the Electric Slide, and Footloose. Even students who had been given the task of running booths could be found participating in conversations with their peers, and dancing to the music that loudly surrounded them.
“Seeing the unity that came from Food Fest was truly touching. Watching students from different grade levels coming together to either serve at a booth or partake in the many food options was amazing to see. The laughter and the joy that was seen as everyone involved was either eating, dancing or enjoying time with friends showed spirit and pride in our school community. I am truly proud to be a part of Patriot Nation" stated head cheer coach Mrs. Perusquia. This event did not just mean fun for the students, it was a moment for teachers, and even administration to step back and watch joyously as students formed memories that would last a lifetime.
As the warning bell rang, signaling students that it was time to head back to class, Food fest had once again proved to be the staple of the year for everyone involved. The light-heartedness, fun, and spirit of food fest this day, showcased that food fest was not just a fundraiser, but it was a celebration of student life, where everyone was able to come together through food, and hard work.