‘Safe and sober’ party for Arcata grads Thursday

Shortly after they walk across Arcata graduation stages, the new high school alumni will step into a free, multi-venue event from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. Thursday at the Arcata Community Center.

A total of $25,000 in cash, food and merchandise donations are fueling the all-night celebration for seniors graduating from Arcata, Six Rivers and Pacific Coast high schools Thursday.

“This is a great tradition,” said Isaiah Levy, Associated Student Body president. “We are super excited that so many senior parents have made this scale of event possible again after smaller grad nights earlier in the pandemic.”

The night will be filled with main stage music, a casino and other game rooms, tarot card readings, photo booth fun, fire dancers and amusement attractions including a mechanical bull, dual bungee jumping, giant tricycle races and an inflatable obstacle course. There will also be a changing buffet with a variety of food and beverages.

“Individuals and businesses have been so generous with their donations,” said Ireland Sommer, ASB treasurer. “The prizes and activities are really fun. I can’t wait!”

Graduating seniors in the Arcata High School leadership class have been providing input on planning and promoting the celebration among their classmates.

Participants will also vie for more than $8,000 in prizes via Dutch raffle drawings for merchandise and gift certificates. Every participant will leave with an envelope of “mystery cash” of up to $100. The grand prize drawing will include a five-night stay in Kona, Hawaii, and $500 in travel cash.

Not only did volunteers raise funds for and plan this event, more than 40 volunteers are slated to work at the event. The over 150 individual and business donors who helped out are featured on the website for Arcata Safe and Sober 2022.