Bridgewater-Raritan High School’s juniors and seniors put on their best dresses, suits and masquerade masks and attended the Winter Formal on February 2.

Sponsored by the Student Council, various treats were on the menu and the gymnasium had a Cinderella transformation, resembling a Night in the Stars theme. When looking around the high school’s gymnasium, students were identified by their masks and daring looks, the clash of aesthetics and styles expressed by each person becoming apparent.

Walking into the venue, people were dancing, taking pictures with friends and singing along to the music. 

Dresses that were carefully selected sparkled in the strobe lights. Suits and sunglasses were also a popular combination, although the latter often fell due to dancing in sync with the music. 

If someone was not dancing to “Party in the U.S.A.” by Miley Cyrus or taking pictures against a “2024” backdrop, they could be found in the room adjacent to the gymnasium.

In the small cafeteria, refreshments such as popcorn, cotton candy and chips were available. Gatorade, juice and water were included in the beverage options of the night.

Most students ran back into the dance after refreshments when they heard their favorite Taylor Swift song blasting through the speakers.

The Winter Formal earned high praise from juniors and seniors who spent their Friday night wearing jeweled masquerade masks. 

Sophia DeSouza, a junior at Bridgewater-Raritan, reflects on the significance of the event. 

“To my knowledge, it’s been years since a Winter Formal has taken place. Everyone wants an opportunity to dress up and dance with their friends as well, so this night was highly anticipated and didn’t disappoint,” she said. 

The Student Council continues to plan events this year to help raise school spirit.