MIDNIGHT MADNESS 2026 — KNOW BEFORE YOU GO! 

When to Arrive: Arrive at CHS between 8:30 PM and 9:00 PM on Wednesday, June 17. Don’t stress if post-graduation traffic slows you down — everyone will get on the bus!

Will There Be Food? Yes! There's no time to go to dinner after the ceremony, but we'll provide you with snacks and water on the bus, food throughout the night, and a light breakfast on the way home (thanks to Sonny's Bagels and some gluten-free donations!). Dietary restrictions and allergies have been taken into account. 

Midnight Madness has a ZERO TOLERANCE policy for drugs and alcohol. Anyone found with, or suspected of being under the influence, will not be allowed to board the bus or will be sent home from the venue. Parents will be contacted and required to pick up the student from either CHS or the venue. Again, ZERO TOLERANCE - we cannot stress this point strongly enough! 

NO water bottles, NO alcohol, NO edibles, NO vapes, NO illegal substances of any kind.

Do I need to bring my school ID or driver’s license? Yes! All students must bring a school ID or license to check in. No exceptions.

No Phones—Seriously? Yes—phones are not allowed. It’s a Midnight Madness tradition. Pro tip: Leave your phone at home or in your car, or else you'll need to check it in for the night. Don't worry about missing out on photos. A pro photographer will be on site!

What to Wear: Be casual and comfortable—this is not prom. Sneakers and shorts are perfect if the weather’s warm. If it’s chilly, you can bring a sweatshirt. Midnight Madness will keep you on your feet—wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes you can move in!

Can I bring a tote bag or backpack? No large bags. We’ll give you a clear bag at check-in and ask you to transfer your items into it. It’s big enough to fit your yearbook if you want signatures!

Can I Park Overnight? Yes! Park in the lots down Parker Ave (near the YMCA/former Gleason’s). Leave the flagpole lot for staff and volunteers.

Medication or Medical Needs? If you need to bring medication or medical devices, a parent/guardian must email midnightmadness@columbiahsa.com by 5:00 PM on Tuesday, June 16 for approval. There will be a nurse at the venue all night. If you have a severe food allergy or a medical condition, please let us know so we can advise the nurse.

What Bus Will I Be On? Buses are assigned at check-in in the cafeteria. Want to ride with friends? Know the number in your group and arrive and check in together—coordinate ahead of time (without phones...you’ll figure it out!). We will have a designated Quiet Bus if you prefer a quieter ride to the venue. Let us know by emailing midnightmadness@columbiahsa.com in advance, or letting us now at check-in. 

What if I need some quiet time? We’ve got you covered. There will be a Quiet Room just inside the entrance to the venue, with soft seating, board games, bracelet-making supplies, and movies — perfect if you need a break to rest or recharge. If you prefer a quiet ride to the event, be sure to ask for a seat on the Quiet Bus.

What if I don't feel good while I'm there? We'll have a nurse on site. She'll be stationed in the Quiet Room. Ask any chaperone and they'll help you find her. 

What Time Are We Back? Expect to return to CHS between 4:00–4:30 AM on Thursday, June 18. Need to contact your ride? Make a plan — maybe leave your phone with a friend who’s parked overnight. 

Tell your parents and guardians to follow our INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT: @CHS_MM for updates on timing throughout the night: Bus departure, snaps from the event itself and an update on when we depart the venue for our approximate ETA at CHS.

Where Are We Going? It’s a surprise! Only a handful of people know—and that’s how we like it. 

We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Questions? Email us at midnightmadness@columbiahsa.com.

– The Midnight Madness Team