LBCC hosted its Homecoming pregame tailgate on the first of October, with the theme being “Midnight Masquerade,” both volunteers and attendees alike were encouraged to dress up and join in on the masquerade fun. Pirates, princesses, and even Spider-man could be seen getting in on the homecoming activities.
The event took place right in the Veterans Memorial Stadium’s parking lot, decorations, white tents, tables, and activities set up for fans and family of the Viking’s football team. Free food, from snow cones to burgers and hot dogs, were available for anyone in attendance.
Live music was also at the event, playing covers of classics like “Play That Funky Music White Boy” and “California Knows How to Party” that got attendees cheering and smiling throughout their festivities.
Several booths were set up in the spirit of Halloween, with many handing out candy and attendees encouraged to dress up in costumes.
One unique booth even contained multiple life-size clown statues.
Some of the homecoming court nominees could also be seen walking around, chatting with friends and running booths.
One such nominee, Joustin Rodriguez representing the junior college fraternity, Order of TONG, gave his comment on his competition for homecoming court royalty.
“It feels like a hard competition, everyone has their skills that make them standout.” Rodriguez said, “So it’s pretty intimidating.”
“I don’t mind [not winning],” he said “I already have the sash!”
All seven of the selected homecoming court nominees were given red sashes emblazoned with “Homecoming Court,” though only a few nominees could be seen in the celebration.
Another nominee, Maria Ortiz Lechuga, working the Little Sisters of Tong booth, expressed her excitement at being nominated as well.
She felt “nervous, but overall excited” about getting the opportunity to run for the crown. Her decision to even apply to be a nominee was last minute, she said. “Since it’s my last year I thought, ‘why not?’”
As the tailgate came to a close, organizers announced the winners for best group costume and best booth.
Best costume was given to the Tong Little Sisters, with their Dia de los Muertos inspired costumes. And for best booth, the Viking Vitals club took the crown, thanks to their pirate themed ring toss game.