In Prineville, Oregon, Crook County High School seniors celebrated their graduation with a cherished local tradition: the Graduates Parade. This annual event, held just after noon, brought together students and community members in a festive procession through the city streets.

The graduates gathered in the high school parking lot, transforming their vehicles into colorful parade floats. Participants decorated a variety of vehicles, including work trucks, big rigs, and classic cars, showcasing their creativity and school spirit. Residents of Prineville lined the sidewalks, cheering on the graduates as they passed by.

Sophie Fischer, one of the graduating seniors, expressed her excitement about the event. “It’s just fun to see everyone in the community and drive past our old schools, seeing everyone we know, just one last time all together,” Fischer shared.

Fellow senior Katie Anderson highlighted the social aspect of the parade. “It’s one last hang out with your class, and you get to decorate your car, so it’s pretty awesome,” Anderson said.

Alejanero Contreras, another graduating senior, shared his enthusiasm for reaching this milestone. “I’m excited, though, like, I’m graduating now, you know? Just gotta make noise with my friends, you know? Celebrate,” Contreras said.

Jaylin Glassman, also a graduating senior, emphasized the community involvement. “Because you get to get together with the community and see other people and all the children watching you. It’s pretty awesome,” Glassman noted.

During the parade, graduates engaged with the crowd by waving and tossing candy. Some students even added a refreshing twist by shooting water from their cars, providing a cool moment on a hot summer day.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.