Seniors gathered in the State High student parking lot to celebrate the end of the year with a morning tailgate cookout on May 23, 2023.

As the class of 2023 approached their final days of high school, State High seniors know how to leave with a bang — or maybe just a sizzle. On Tuesday, May 23, the student parking lot was overtaken by an unfamiliar scene. The smell of grilled meats permeated the air as onlookers pulled up to school. Summer cookouts are nothing new. The location, however, made a silly scene.

It all started when senior Grace Carey came up with the idea. The plan was set in motion the previous night. After putting together a group chat with some of her closest friends, she proposed a scheme. 

“I basically just texted a big group chat and asked if they wanted to tailgate in the lot before school,” Carey said.

Unsurprisingly, they quickly and enthusiastically agreed. At 10 a.m. that following morning, the celebration had begun. Students played traditional tailgate games and enjoyed sharing quality time with their peers. Some of the delicacies grilled up included bacon and hot dogs, a hearty breakfast of champions. A large grill sat beside rows of cars. 

Tailgates before Penn State football games are a cherished tradition. Fans from all over come together to celebrate their love for the Nittany Lions. The tailgating scene is lively and vibrant, with people grilling up delicious food, playing games, and enjoying each other’s company. The parking lots around Beaver Stadium are filled with tents, grills, and coolers, as fans gear up for the game. 

The atmosphere is festive and welcoming, with fans of all ages coming together to share in the excitement. Whether people are die-hard fans or casual observers, the tailgates before Penn State football games are an unforgettable experience.

“It was a lot of fun,” Carey said. “I’m glad everyone showed up and did their part. It was a great way to start the day and I know everyone really enjoyed it. Plus, it was pretty funny.” 

Spending time with friends during senior year is incredibly important. As high school comes to an end, it’s natural to feel nostalgic and sentimental about the memories made over the years. Senior year is a time to reflect on those memories and create new ones with the people who have been through it all together. It’s a time to celebrate accomplishments and look forward to the future. 

Spending time with friends can help students de-stress, stay positive, and enjoy the last year of high school to the fullest. Whether students are going out for dinner, seeing a movie, or just hanging out at home, the time they spend with their friends during senior year will be something they’ll always cherish.

With such little time remaining, learning to find joy in these last moments is an integral part of this closing chapter. Memories like these are sure to last.