On Tuesday, Sept. 19, students rushed to the Door 6 parking lot, ready to enjoy some tacos and jam out to some tunes. A yearly tradition of Edina’s Homecoming Week, Tacos and Tunes has garnered popularity in the lead-up to the big Homecoming dance. Held after Hornet Bowl—formerly known as Powderpuff—students were welcome to grab tacos while EHS student musicians performed on stage.
The event, created in order to replace a previous tradition, has grown to connect the Edina community year after year. “There used to be a bonfire, but it was a fire hazard so we had to switch up,” Student Council member and senior Asoka Mba said.
Students use it as a time to hang out with friends, creating unity within the overall student body. “I think events like these build community and foster a sense of growth. It’s a new place for everyone to get together, meet new people, and watch their friends perform,” senior Joaquin Loftin said.
As tacos were finished off, student performers took to the stage for a chance to show their talents. From stand-up comedy to Taylor Swift, students performed a variety of acts. Senior Andrew Gump, aka Zestie Bestie, had the chance to rap his original songs on stage. “It was great to be on a stage with all those people and having that big of a crowd was amazing. I felt like it was a perfect stage for me to be on,” he said.
While the event serves as a way to meet new friends and enjoy some food, it also provides EHS’s student musicians a new platform to grow their following. With local venues shutting down and opportunities like this quickly fading, students seized the chance. “It’s definitely an awesome opportunity to build your base. I’ve only done talent shows before, so it’s a great way to take that next step in my music career, especially with local venues shutting down,” Gump said.
A popular way to kick off Homecoming week each year, the event provides a space for students to relax from all the week’s stresses. “I think it just brings the school together and it’s really nice to just have fun and chill for a bit,” senior Raja Chinnakotla said.
