Spring Break 2026: Marist Students Travel to Argentina, Europe, and Disney
Marist Students Embark on Cultural Exchange in Buenos Aires
The Marist High School World Language Department is proud to continue its international exchange with our sister school, Colegio Champagnat in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
This spring break, 13 Marist students traveled to Buenos Aires for an immersive cultural experience. They reunited with their exchange partners, who visited us at Marist Chicago last year, and experienced life in their homes, their school, and their city.
Upon arrival, students were welcomed at Colegio Champagnat before heading home with their host families, where they were fully immersed in daily life throughout their stay.
Over the course of the trip, students explored the rich history and vibrant culture of Argentina’s capital city. Highlights included guided tours of iconic landmarks such as Casa Rosada, La Boca, and the colorful Caminito street, along with a visit to the Quinquela Martín Museum and the historic San Telmo neighborhood.
A northern excursion took students to El Tigre, where they experienced the Paraná Delta by speedboat, visited the Puerto de Frutos market, and enjoyed time kayaking along the waterways.
Beyond sightseeing, the exchange emphasized authentic cultural immersion. Students spent meaningful time with their host families, including a full weekend and Easter Sunday together, offering a unique glimpse into Argentine traditions and daily life.
Students also participated in school days at Colegio Champagnat, strengthening connections with their peers and experiencing the academic environment firsthand.
One of the most memorable experiences of the trip was a visit to Estancia Don Silvano, where students enjoyed a traditional Argentine day in the countryside. Activities included horseback and carriage rides, a classic asado lunch, and gaucho demonstrations that showcased Argentina’s rich cultural heritage.
Additional excursions included a walking tour of Buenos Aires featuring stops at the renowned El Ateneo bookstore, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the historic Recoleta Cemetery, along with time to explore local shops.
The trip concluded with a farewell celebration at Colegio Champagnat before students returned home with unforgettable memories and lasting friendships.
This exchange program continues to be a powerful example of Marist’s commitment to global learning, cultural understanding, and building lifelong connections, bringing faith, culture, and life together on an international stage.
Italy, Austria, Germany & Switzerland: A 10-Day European Experience
Over Easter Break, 37 Marist students embarked on a 10-day educational journey across Italy, Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, experiencing some of Europe’s most historic cities, cultural landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes.
The trip began in northern Italy, where students explored Verona, the city made famous by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. They visited Juliet’s House, viewed the historic Roman amphitheater in Piazza Bra, and walked through the charming streets of the city center.
In Venice, students stepped into one of the world’s most unique and storied cities. A guided walking tour brought them through Piazza San Marco, St. Mark’s Basilica, and the Doge’s Palace, while a visit to the Rialto area showcased the vibrant heart of Old Venice. A glassblowing demonstration offered a firsthand look at one of Venice’s most celebrated artistic traditions.
The journey continued through the Alps into Salzburg, Austria, where students explored the birthplace of Mozart and experienced the city’s rich musical and architectural history. Highlights included a guided walking tour featuring Salzburg Cathedral, the Hohensalzburg Fortress, and the famous Getreidegasse, along with a visit to Mozart’s childhood home.
In Hallein, students went underground to explore historic salt mines, gaining insight into a trade that dates back thousands of years. The adventure continued into Germany with a visit to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, nestled at the base of the country’s highest peak, the Zugspitze.
One of the most memorable stops was Neuschwanstein Castle, the fairytale fortress that inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle. Students toured the elaborate interiors and took in sweeping views of the surrounding Alpine landscape.
Traveling onward, the group made a stop in Liechtenstein before arriving in Lucerne, Switzerland. There, students explored the city’s Old Town, crossed the iconic Chapel Bridge, and visited the Lion Monument. A scenic lake cruise and a traditional Swiss dinner with folklore entertainment provided a memorable cultural experience.
The final days of the trip brought students back into Italy’s lake region, where they visited Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands. Touring the Baroque palace on Isola Bella and exploring the charming Isola dei Pescatori offered a peaceful and picturesque conclusion to the journey.
From historic cities and cultural landmarks to unforgettable natural scenery, this European experience provided Marist students with a deeper understanding of the world and the opportunity to bring classroom learning to life.
Marist Band Travels to Walt Disney World for Performance Experience
During Spring Break, Marist Band students traveled to Orlando for a memorable performance experience at Walt Disney World, combining musical growth with unforgettable moments in the parks.
The trip began with a full day at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where students had the opportunity to explore the park and enjoy some of its most popular attractions.
A highlight of the experience came during a backstage workshop near Epcot, where students participated in a Disney Soundtrack Sessions: Instrumental Workshop. Working with a Disney conductor and clinician, students sight-read and performed music while learning how to synchronize their performance to a film clip. The session culminated in a recorded performance of a Moana medley, giving students a unique, real-world look at music production and performance.
The following day, students took the stage for their featured performance at the Waterside Stage in Disney Springs. Despite some rain and wind, the band delivered an outstanding performance, showcasing their talent and preparation with a program that included Fanfare & Flourishes, Incandescence, The Rite of Spring, and Pixar Movie Magic.
Beyond their performance, students experienced several of Disney’s parks, including Epcot and Magic Kingdom, where they explored attractions and enjoyed time together as a group. The trip also included a visit to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, as well as a day at Epic Universe, giving students a well-rounded and exciting travel experience.
Throughout the trip, students demonstrated responsibility, adaptability, and strong character, representing Marist with pride both on and off the stage. The experience provided not only an opportunity to perform in a world-class setting, but also to grow as musicians and as a community.
With the support of dedicated chaperones, parents, and faculty, the trip was a tremendous success and a meaningful highlight of the school year for the Marist Band program.
