Tradition Burns Bright.

One of Chippewa’s oldest and most spirited traditions, the Bonfire unites students, families, alumni, and the community before the big Rittman rivalry game.

There’s tradition—and then there’s The Bonfire. Every fall, on the eve of the much-anticipated football game against Rittman, the Chippewa community comes together in a celebration that’s loud, proud, and unmistakably Chipp.

This Wednesday evening, students from all Chippewa schools, parents, alumni, staff, and community members are invited to gather at the Jr./Sr. High School athletic entrance at 7:00 p.m. before heading out together at 7:15. Imagine the sight: a whole crowd of Chipps walking up Portage Street, filled with energy and spirit, arriving at Memorial Park around 7:30 p.m. where the flames of the bonfire light up the night sky.

The annual bonfire is more than just an event—it’s a tradition rooted in unity and pride. Students from every building, families, alumni, staff, and local supporters all walk side by side, proving that when the fire rises, we rise together as one.

The excitement of this evening stretches beyond the fire itself. It’s a rallying point for the community, an unforgettable kick-off to Homecoming season, and a celebration of one of Ohio’s oldest rivalries—Chippewa vs. Rittman, the third-oldest football rivalry in the state.

This is what it means to be Chippewa. The energy, the tradition, and the togetherness make the bonfire a night you won’t want to miss.