West Chicago Community High School held its annual Homecoming frenzy earlier today, featuring the popular Food Festival.
Following a lively pep assembly, students poured out of the football field, drawn by the enticing aromas of numerous food stands. From WEGO Global’s Bake Sale to Tech Crew’s Pickle on a Stick, there was something for everyone. Whether craving a quick snack or a full meal, the options seemed endless, and the lines were filled with eager students.
Among the most popular items were Brandon Fantozzi’s famous pulled pork sandwiches and Maggie Haas’ renowned cookies, always a hit at WEGO Global’s meetings.
As the second-to-last day of Homecoming week unfolded, students rushed to buy and enjoy the variety of treats. Jaxon Williams, a senior, tried the pizza.
“Unfortunately, they didn’t have the kind I wanted, but it was still really good,” he said. He also grabbed a water bottle for just a dollar, which he found “pretty cheap,” Williams said.
Sophomore David Alvarez had a different take on the event.
“It’s terribly cold and freezing,” he said.
Crowd concerns were an issue throughout the event, as all the food stands were situated in a row along Wood Street.
“It’s really packed, and it’s hard to move through the people,” Jacky Gonzalez, another sophomore, said.
Those sentiments were echoed by other attendees.
“It was too crowded, and the stalls needed bigger, clearer signs,” Niyati Patel said, noting it took her and her friends ten minutes to locate the pizza stall.
The Food Festival is about more than just food—it’s a celebration of community and school spirit, building excitement for the homecoming game and dance and bringing everyone together to share in the festivities.
“I only had enough money for tamales and a snow cone, but the tamales were really good,” freshman Kamila Sarmiento said. “The energy was great, especially since everyone was hungry and ready to eat.”
Amid the crowd, students and staff alike gathered to enjoy the variety of foods, soaking in the excitement of the approaching Homecoming festivities. The atmosphere at the Food Fest was chaotic but fun, students filled with anticipation for the weekend’s events said.
