As the autumn leaves fall and the school year gains momentum, one tradition at Broad Run is conjuring a lot of school spirit. It’s time for the annual Homecoming Hallway Decorating Competition, and this year’s theme is in the mystical realm of fairy tales.
Every year, the hallways of our school transform as students and faculty come together to decorate. This decor is centered around a determined theme, with each grade being able to pick their own subsect within the theme. Stories like Hansel and Gretel, Little Red Riding Hood, and 3 Little Pigs have been chosen by each grade in past years.
The competition, which occurs the week leading up to the Homecoming dance, has become a beloved tradition at Broad Run. Each class, from the freshmen to the seniors, takes on the challenge of transforming their designated hallway into a scene straight out of their design – in this case, straight out of a fairy tale!
From the painted murals to the carefully crafted props, the whole event is an art and design lover’s dream. Although there are limitless opportunities, sometimes the hallways fall short of their prowess. The junior class had a total of 3 people decorating their hallway. Nevertheless, there is always some sort of turn out for each class. Senior Allyson Clark said, “This event was pretty fun, I’ve been doing it since my sophomore year, so I’m happy to be back this year!”
Each design is drawn by those interested in class meetings prior to the event. Once a final design is selected, it’s up to class sponsors and students to execute what they want to do. The senior class picked out their design a week prior, and utilized colored paper, string lights, and elaborate wood creations to signify the entrance to the witches house in Hansel and Gretel. Building night usually includes a group of students and a multitude of arts and crafts items!
The competition isn’t just about aesthetics: it’s also a battle for bragging rights. The halls become places of friendly rivalry, and each class strives to outdo the others with their displays. Judges, composed of teachers and administrators, take on the difficult task of choosing a winner, considering creativity, craftsmanship, and adherence to the theme.
In the end, no matter which class takes home the winning title this year, one thing is certain: the Homecoming Hallway Decorating Competition is a celebrated Broad Run tradition that captures the student body’s attention, and one that’s here to stay!
