After two weeks of stressful AP tests, Arcadia High School (AHS) hosted its 2026 Prom on May 16 from 7-11 p.m. Located at The Cathedral Pomona, this year followed the theme of “When the Last Petal Drops.” Photo backdrops containing roses and other floral arrangements were seen throughout the venue to further the theme.
The morning of prom was busy for many students. Groups gathered to make flower bouquets with their friends and get ready for the dance together. Hair, makeup, and pictures are often activities that friends do together.
“I got ready with two of my friends. One of them did my makeup, and the other did my hair,” said senior Faith Huang.
“I got ready alone but I took pictures with my friends before prom. We took pictures in groups at this woodsy park,” said senior Chloe Chang.
A popular picture spot was the California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (CPP) Gardens. The CPP Gardens had two separate sections for visitors to take pictures in: the Japanese Garden and the Rose Garden. The Japanese Garden featured a bridge and a pond that many students chose to pose in front of, while the Rose Garden was full of pastel flowers.
The venue itself had multiple floors and outdoor areas, as well as numerous different rooms for students to gather in. There were three photobooths, karaoke, a live band, and game areas that hosted activities such as arm wrestling or corn hole. Prom also featured food items more than just small desserts. BBQ pulled chicken sliders, Italian meatballs, cheese sliders, and a taco buffet were all available for students to enjoy. Lemonade and water were also on hand in multiple areas.
Students had varied opinions about the food and music.
“The food was way better than last year,” said Chang. “The meatballs were so, so good.”
“The meatballs were good. But I didn’t like the sandwiches; the bread wasn’t tasty, and the meat was way too sweet,” said senior John Eguez.
“I think some songs were really good, but other songs were either repeated or not as hype as they could have been,” said senior Isabella Ramirez.
“It felt like the DJ was just playing a Spotify playlist; he was on his phone half the time,” said Chang.
Overall, the night was an opportunity for AHS students to spend time with friends all dressed up. Keychains with rose petal charms were passed out at the end of the night, serving as souvenirs to remember the dance.
Photo courtesy of @arcadiaprom2026 on Instagram
