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The night of Feb. 16 was the highly anticipated Winter Formal, held at the picturesque Ocean Institute in Dana Point. Organized meticulously by the UHS Junior Classical League (JCL), this year’s Winter Formal proved to be an unforgettable event filled with excitement, various activities and the crowning of the Winter Formal King and Queen.

Leading up to the grand event, JCL presented students with various challenges and activities, offering discounts on tickets and hints at the theme. From deciphering codes to participating in scavenger hunts, students eagerly engaged in the festivities which added an extra layer of excitement. The theme of this year’s Winter Formal was unveiled as “Titanic,” a nod to the iconic tale of love and tragedy.

Throughout the evening, the Ocean Institute served as a breathtaking backdrop that added to the ambiance of the night. Students had the opportunity to explore the facility and admire its marine creatures, providing a unique and memorable experience for all attendees.

“The Ocean Institute was pretty with the floral decor and I really enjoyed the many creatures we got to view,” senior Ryan Nguyen said. “The ability to share the amazing creatures and serene atmosphere with my friends created an amazing opportunity for pictures and gave us all a refreshing take on Winter Formal.”

However, no Winter Formal would be complete without music and dancing. While opinions on the DJ varied among students, with some expressing disappointment in the song selection, others found solace in the live band that graced the event.

“It was pretty fun, but the DJ wasn’t the best one that we’ve had,” senior Zoe Lee said. “The live band however was exceptional and I found myself there way more often than the DJ.”

In addition to dancing, students indulged in delicious treats such as chocolate-covered fruits and s’mores. These sweet delights provided the perfect complement to the lively atmosphere, allowing students to create lasting memories with their friends.

“[I] really enjoyed going to Winter Formal and enjoyed dancing with friends and making s’mores,” senior Anika Mae Dizon said.

At 10 p.m., the Winter Formal King and Queen were announced. Seniors Sanghyuk Im and Elizabeth Choi were crowned. 

Winter Formal proved to be a night to remember for the students. From the captivating theme to the lively entertainment and sweet indulgences, every aspect of the event contributed to an unforgettable experience.