On May 23, Williston students may mistake the Quad as Bourbon Street, as it will be the school’s annual Willy Gras celebration to mark the end of the year.

This year’s theme will be Willy Wonka. Students throughout campus are chattering about what Willy Gras may have in store this year, as the carnival-like day reminds them of simpler times as a kid.

This marks the last week of school for seniors, and lets them have a little more fun before they officially graduate that Saturday, May 26. Sure it’s important for seniors, but all grades enjoy what Willy Gras has to offer. In the past Willy Gras has had activities like slip ‘n’ slides, Sumo wrestling rings, obstacle courses, and dunk tanks. Of course there’s also the canoe race, where students can watch volunteers from each class attempt to get across the school pond and back. They have to avoid having water and other things dumped on them from spectators on the bridge, a true test for any competitor.

Senior Gabby Jones is ready for one more wild Willy Wednesday before she gets her diploma.

“Each year is better than the next,” said Gabby. “This is my sixth year at Williston, and it seems like the next year is always more fun than the last.”

The competitions are always fun for students, including the three-legged races and the water balloon tosses.

Kevin Lassman ’19 was last year’s runner up in the water balloon toss, alongside Tim Rego ’19.

“It’s nothing crazy and expensive, but all the childish games and activities are a really good time,” said Kevin. “For seniors it’s the end, while for underclassmen it’s a little bit of fun to relieve us before finals the following week.”

Meanwhile some other students are into Willy Gras for the laughs. Billy Smith ’18 shared a story about his first Willy Gras experience last year.

“I just remember dying laughing when I accidentally kicked my buddy in the lip during the obstacle race,” said Billy. “Luckily he was all right; he claimed his tooth was chipped but I didn’t believe it. Anyway it was a lot of fun and I can’t wait for this year’s.”

Students have heard rumors about this year’s celebration, but nobody can confirm until the day really happens. Ms. Davey has spoken a few times about it briefly during assembly, and ensures it will be a great experience for both faculty and students.

Kyle Caddo ’18 has hopes of sending Mr. Hanford, his hockey coach and former dorm parent, into the dunk tank this year.

“Hanford swims in shirts normally, so I’m hoping the weather will convince him to do so,” Kyle joked.