Spring break this year meant more than time off for many students at Marist High School. It became an opportunity to cross continents, experience new cultures and, in some cases, perform on a nationally recognized stage.
During spring break 2026, dozens of Marist students took part in educational travel experiences that brought them to Argentina, across Europe and to Walt Disney World, blending classroom learning with real-world immersion.
A group of 13 students traveled to Buenos Aires as part of the school’s long-running exchange program with Colegio Champagnat. The visit reunited them with exchange partners who previously stayed in Chicago, allowing students to reconnect while integrating into daily life abroad.
Students lived with host families, attended classes and explored cultural landmarks throughout the city, gaining firsthand insight into Argentine traditions and routines. Their itinerary included stops at Casa Rosada, the colorful streets of La Boca and Caminito, along with the historic San Telmo district.
An excursion to the Paraná Delta and a visit to Estancia Don Silvano gave students a chance to experience traditional Argentine culture through horseback riding, gaucho demonstrations and a customary asado meal.
The trip concluded with a farewell celebration at Colegio Champagnat, capping an experience that school leaders say fosters language development and lasting global connections.
Another group of 37 students embarked on a 10-day educational tour through Italy, Austria, Germany and Switzerland, visiting historic cities and scenic landscapes across Europe.
The journey began in Verona, where students explored Juliet’s House and the city’s Roman amphitheater. In Venice, they toured landmarks including St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, and observed a traditional glassblowing demonstration.
Travel through the Alps brought the group to Salzburg, Austria, where they visited Mozart’s Birthplace, before continuing into Germany. Highlights there included Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Neuschwanstein Castle, a structure widely known for inspiring Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle.
Stops in Liechtenstein and Lucerne, Switzerland, included a walk across Chapel Bridge and time exploring Old Town, along with visits to Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands in Italy’s lake region.
Marist band students also traveled to Orlando, where they combined performance with professional development at Walt Disney World.
Students participated in a Disney Soundtrack Sessions workshop, working with a professional clinician to rehearse and record a synchronized performance to film. The experience culminated in a recorded medley from the animated film “Moana.”
The band performed at the Waterside Stage in Disney Springs, presenting a diverse musical program to park visitors. Time in Orlando also included visits to Epcot, Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios, along with nearby Universal Orlando Resort.
School officials said the trips are designed to extend learning beyond the classroom while encouraging independence, cultural awareness and personal growth.
Through international travel, cultural exchange and performance opportunities, Marist students returned with broadened perspectives and experiences that will last well beyond the school year.