By Jason W. Brooks
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“Rhythms of Rio”could be interpreted a variety of artistic ways. And since that’s the Fountain Hills High School’s 2025 Homecoming theme, residents will get to see how students and others show that theme during the last full week of September.

Between a home volleyball match Wednesday, Sept. 24, and the Homecoming dance on Saturday, Sept. 27, it’s a festive week planned.

The centerpiece of events, and something not every Arizona community hosts, is the Thursday, Sept. 25 FHHS Homecoming parade.

“The Rio theme will be seen all over the parade, as far as decorative floats and costumes,” FHHS Athletic Director Evelyn Wynn said. “We will be having our school pep assembly on Friday, where our royalty will be announced, and our students will participate in other fun games and activities.”

The Sept. 24 varsity volleyball match, against Trivium Prep, is set for 6 p.m.
The parade, to be held the following day, will mostly be along Avenue of the Fountains. Staging starts at 4 p.m.; the parade starts at 5:30 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 26, the Falcon varsity football team hosts Bourgade Catholic at the FHHS field for a 7 p.m. game.

Not only is it Homecoming, but this year, the same game also happens to be senior night for football, pom, band and swimming before the dance happens Saturday, Sept. 27.

“We will also have themed nights for our student sections,” Wynn said.

Wynn said to encourage “Rhythms of Rio” theme participation, the parent-teacher organization is sponsoring a $500 prize for the best float and the Athletic Booster Club is sponsoring a $200 reward for the most creative float.

“Also, the (Youth) Coalition is sponsoring a $50 prize for the people’s choice float,” Wynn said.
She said there isn’t much changed from the favorite parts of Homecoming alumni and others enjoyed in past years.

“The only difference is that our Homecoming (football) night will also be senior night for our football players, band members, swimmers and pommies,” Wynn said. “This is due to our last home game being over fall break.”

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Jason W. Brooks
News Editor | Chandler Independent

Jason W. Brooks joined Independent Newsmedia, Inc., USA, in July 2021 as an associate editor. After a year covering Buckeye, he has covered Chandler since the fall of 2022, in addition to assisting the Daily Independent throughout his time at INI.

Education: University of New Mexico, bachelor of arts in journalism and mass communication, print emphasis, English minor.

Random Fact: He and his siblings witnessed a Space Shuttle launch and landing in the same year in person, on opposite coasts.

Hobbies: Karaoke, bicycling and American Sign Language.

Community: He supports animal shelters.