The annual GO BO celebration is inherently romantic, and, honestly, quite akin to a wedding. In the days leading up to the event, there’s an excited buzz around Georgetown. The SCOUT team dedicates a decent amount of time and energy to the planning, coordination, and prep surrounding this evening held in the Johns family backyard. It’s very “Cinderelly, Cinderelly” as we giddily hang reams upon reams of tulle from pillars and rafters, inflate pool floats, and sneak down to the Johns' poolhouse basement for bathroom breaks and opportunities to marvel at never-ending shelves of vintage SCOUT.
It’s like looking at a wedding album over the course of decades and family members or all your mother’s old bridesmaid dresses. The longing is unbearable for old friends, summer camp, beach trips, football games, dances, college formals, everything lovely and dizzying from growing up. On this night we feel all the feelings. We see old friends and new. We eat. We drink. We dance wildly to the Party Rockers Band. And, maybe we will jump in the pool with our dresses on.
Vow Renewal was probably the most timeless theme we’ve chosen so far for this 20 year reunion. All the costumes were fabulous and classically nuptial. Of course, we had our fair share of Moira Rose’s in her “pope-esque” look which was maybe the best costume ever aside from long time friend of the Johns, Callee Johnsen, who donned a top hat with veil as a delightful nod to the Parent Trap. We would also be remiss not to acknowledge Ben’s clerical garb. Or shall we say “hot priest” attire. Of course there were giveaway bags “for the honeymoon,” a raffle, and multiple open bars. We would never host an event with lines and without swag!
Like bridesmaids, the SCOUT team dutifully plans their costume to theme. They are a uniform covey but with their own little touches of flair and personal style. Everyone leaves the office a little earlier that Friday to get ready and head over to the team pregame. The energy is warm, bubbly, and dreamy. We nervously chatter and wonder “what will happen this year?” There’s nothing like it. GO BO is like a summer kiss goodbye, and the next day you’re left to soak in your nostalgia tub and replay the night in your mind while inhaling a breakfast sandwich from Bagels ETC.
It’s wild to believe this was our 20th GO BO party. We’re so proud of our friends, family, and communities, in DC and beyond, who have helped make a lasting impact in the lives of children and families at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. Every dollar made through this event directly supports children with cancer and their incredible families supported by this hospital. We’re approaching the $1 million donated mark, and it’s all thanks to our colorful and celebratory SCOUT family and community. If you don’t join us for GO BO 2026, then you might be a scrooge! Now, Siri please play, “I came here for LOVE, for someone to hold me down.”
