GradBash ’26: A Night To Remember

Our class of 2026 seniors took a well earned break from the school year with a long anticipated
trip to Universal Studios for this year’s GradBash. The event, ha ving taken place on Friday, April
17th, gave students a chance to unwind and enjoy a night filled with excitement.
GradBash does come with a few expectations. You must follow park rules, stay with a group,
and abide by Ferguson’s personal Do’s and Don’ts. Other than that, students are free to explore
the parks as they choose to. The independence that the trip offers is part of what makes the
experience so memorable.
Leading up to the trip, students built up their anticipation by participating in senior spirit week.
Themes consisted of Back to the Future, Anything but a Bag, Minion Mayhem, and finally,
Universal Day. Involvement brought on a sense of unity and school pride. From creative ideas to
coordinated outfits, the amount of enthusiasm made each day more fun than the last.
According to senior Eugenio Labra-Jr, “Spirit week was enjoyable. I participated in all the days
and had fun but went all out for my favorite one, Minion Mayhem Day! I dressed up as a purple
minion, wearing a purple wig with goggles drawn on.”
The journey begins with a lengthy bus ride. Whether it’s prioritizing thrilling roller coasters or
what they’ll purchase at gift shops, the ride there sets the tone for the adventure. It’s at this time
that seats are chosen, snacks are shared, and plans are mapped out for the night ahead.
Once inside the park, students scatter about in groups, taking in everything from lively rides to
themed areas with incredible details. Some chase the adrenaline of the biggest attractions,
while others prefer to shop or try different foods. Regardless of where they decide to go, or what
they decide to do, everyone finds a way to have fun.
“Hagrid’s motorbike adventure was totally the best ride, Men in black and Escape from Gringotts
were both pretty fun too! I also had a good time shopping for comics on Superhero island. The
spider-man ride was also fun, I love how it genuinely feels like I’m in a cartoon every time I ride
it,” said senior Kiana Caldwell.
As the evening continues, the parks shift into a completely different atmosphere. Bright lights
shine throughout the park. Many areas continue to stay lively into the night, and groups settle
down as they move from attraction to attraction. The time makes the same rides and spaces feel
entirely different, adding onto the experience.
Eventually, the night comes to an end, and seniors return to the buses, exhausted but content.
The once energetic chit chat fades into quiet as many students fall asleep on the late ride home.
GradBash for the class of 2026 was more than just a trip, it was a celebration of the journey our
seniors have taken together. It marks a moment of joy and connection before graduation,
especially since they’ve made memories that’ll last far beyond high school.