The Palos Verdes Peninsula came alive the weekend of July 25–26, 2025 as alumni, faculty, staff, families, and friends gathered for MiralesteFest, a two-day celebration that exceeded every expectation. What was billed as the party of the year turned out to be even more than that, it was a joyful reunion, a heartfelt tribute, and a testament to the enduring Marauder spirit.
The festivities launched Friday afternoon with the much-anticipated Hall of Fame ceremony and the presentation of the Marauder Spirit Award to longtime Palos Verdes resident Annie Ruth, whose dedication to the Miraleste community spans decades. Alumni from all eras filled the stands, and the atmosphere soared as the legendary 1981 National Champion Boys Tennis Team reunited with their coach for a standing ovation that echoed through the gym.
Adding a touch of international flair, world-famous artist and Palos Verdes resident John Van Hamersveld of Endless Summer fame personally introduced his original MiralesteFest poster design. Guests lined up to purchase one of only 500 signed copies, while John and his wife Alida spent both days chatting with attendees and showcasing his other works.
Local flavor played a starring role, too. Friday’s dinner from South Bay Food Co drew rave reviews, and Saturday’s I Love Hector’s Tacos stand became a buzzing hub for hungry Marauders. In a first for the campus, the cheekily named “Drunken Marauder” bar kept the crowd refreshed with beer and wine and the Miraleste Intermediate PTSA snack bar kept the sweet treats flowing both days.
From the first note of laughter to the last toast of the weekend, MiralesteFest reminded everyone why the Marauder spirit runs so deep. Alumni reconnected as if no time had passed, faculty shared memories that spanned decades, and families danced, dined, and celebrated under the summer sky.
As the weekend drew to a close, one thing was clear: MiralesteFest wasn’t just a reunion. It was a living, breathing celebration of a community’s shared history and a promise to keep the Marauder legacy alive for generations to come.
