To many, the whirring of carnival rides and the smell of fall-themed food stands are the birthplace of festivity. Flashing lights and loud popular music encapsulates students and families alike as they enter the iconic St. James Fair. 

   Every year, St. James Catholic School opens their doors to host their very own harvest festival. While the St. James School Harvest Festival is a fundraising event — with profits going towards the school’s educational needs — it is most well known for its festive games, exhilarating rides, and fall foods. Some of the main attractions this year were the Ferris wheel, the Dragon Swing, the Monkey Maze, and a version of the Six Flags’ famous Gravitor ride. The Gravitor ride was a new addition to the fair this year — replacing the previous spinning swings — and was a popular favorite among many. The Gravitor spins participants rapidly as they stand upright, strapped to the ride. Participants feel high pressure and extreme pull when they are spun.  Hannah Takasaki (10) stated that the Gravitor ride was “a standout of the fair.” She stated it provided a more unique experience that differed from other years at the festival. Takasaki believed this change was a step in the right direction, as the fair can become repetitive due to it having the same rides each year. The addition of the Gravitor made for a refreshing and exciting change. 

   The fair is a fun place to bond with family or friends, but it comes with some downsides. For students such as Noah Russo (12), the cost of the festival was a turnoff. Russo, anticipating a festive night out with her boyfriend, was disappointed because the fair was “too expensive to go to,” with each ride costing roughly around five dollars per person.  Since the festival is set up to fundraise money for St. James, prices for attractions and food can be steep. 

   Even though the costs can be high, the festival is still an enjoyable place to be in. While Riley Williams (12)  wasn’t a fan of the high-energy environment, he was entertained by “the carnival games that look really easy but take all your tickets.” Williams made fond memories with his girlfriend at the fair, vividly remembering his ride on the Ferris wheel while admiring the view of the city.  

The St. James Fair has a little bit for everyone. Not only does it donate to local education, but it also gives families and friends unique memories to share with each other. The fair brings enjoyment and happiness to the students of West, and encourages fall festivities in Torrance.