Niles West will host the fourth annual Pizza Wars on Thursday, Jan. 16 in the contest gym from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

This contest will decide which pizza is the best to raise money for District 219 students in need.  The pizza tasting ends at 7:15 p.m. Pizzas from all over District 219 will be tested including Barnaby’s, Father & Son Italian Kitchen, Giordano’s, Gulliver’s, Jet’s Pizza, Lou Malnati’s, Nancy’s, Organic Life, Papa John’s, Village Inn Pizzeria, and Wa-Pa-Ghetti’s.

” [The goal of Pizza Wars is] to help District 219 students who have needs not addressed in typical budgets. For example, students who need computers or need to pay for AP tests. It also provides scholarships and helps kids pay for entrance exams for college,” Charles Pratt said, substitute for Jessica Pritzker and former Niles North teacher and Dance Marathon sponsor.

When Pizza Wars started it was a  modest event but last year 850 people participated causing them to shift the event to the contest gym.

Many students give Giordano’s their vote.

“Giordano’s is my favorite because I like how the cheese is super cheesy and everything is made well and the sauce is smooth. It’s not chunky and gross, and I like the crust,” junior Albina Purelku said.

Junior Lily Pashup agrees with Purelku.

“I am strictly for Giordano’s because the crust is amazing and the cheese is stringy. It goes on for miles and there’s so many different kinds of pizzas you can choose from. I especially love their deep dish pizza,” Pashup said.

According to Pratt, however, the purpose of the event is to also showcase local businesses.

“I suppose it’s also a showcase for local businesses. It’s a family event people can come to and have fun. There are also students who entertain at the event like Rock and Roll club,” Pratt said.

Tickets are $12 per person, $40 for four people, and $15 tickets are sold at the door. Advance tickets will be sold outside the cafeteria during lunch periods or in the Student Commons.