The Marietta High School Class of 1975 is preparing for a special 50-year reunion later this month, and organizers are doing something they say is a first for local class gatherings.

The celebration will take place the weekend of July 25-26, with a unique twist kicking off the festivities: Graduates from the classes of 1973, 1974, 1976, and 1977 have been invited to join Friday night’s event.

“We’re trying something a little different,” said Bill McFarland, one of the reunion organizers. “Back when Marietta had larger class sizes, over 400 students per class, it was common for students to know people in classes ahead and behind them. So we thought, why not bring those folks together too?”

The gathering will be held Friday, July 25, at the Lafayette Hotel’s Sternwheel Ballroom from 7 p.m. to midnight. Organizers expect more than 200 attendees. Entry is $5 per person, which covers light snacks. A cash bar will also be available.

“It’s not about doing anything fancy,” McFarland said. “We just wanted to provide a space where people could reconnect and reminisce about their school days.”