UPDATE:
Click here for information on the 2011 UM Homecoming Parade
Archived article for the 2010 Homecoming Parade:
As the end of September draws near, Missoulians are busy preparing to welcome back students and alumni for the University of Montana Homecoming Week.
Colleges and universities across the country participate in the annual tradition of homecoming that dates back to the early 1900s, and the University of Montana is no exception. UM homecoming is alive with tradition and pride, and provides an atmosphere of fun and excitement with activities for everyone.
During Homecoming Week UM alumni, friends, students, and community members can participate in a variety of events including traditional reunion gatherings, pep rallies, a parade, tailgate parties, and of course, the Grizzly football game.
This year’s Homecoming Week begins on Sunday, September 19 and concludes on Saturday, September 25. The 2010 University of Montana Homecoming theme is “We Are the World” in honor of the alumni from all over the globe who return to campus to reconnect with old friends and classmates.
While there are a variety of events and activities to choose from, some of the featured Homecoming events are as follows:
Sunday, September 19 — 1:00 p.m.
Homecoming Kick-off Celebration officially launches Homecoming Week. The festivities are held at Southgate Mall from 1 pm-3 pm. Missoula’s 102.5 FM will feature a live radio broadcast from the Southgate Mall clock court.
Thursday, September 23 – Saturday, September 25 — 9:00-6:00 p.m.
The Homecoming Art Fair will be held in the University Center First Floor Atrium. Arts and crafts from local artisans are featured in one of the most popular art fairs of the year.
Friday, September 24 — 8:00 p.m.
The Yell Night Pep Rally will be held on the Oval on the UM campus. This event features the UM football team, coaches, marching band, cheerleaders, and Monte and is a fun and exciting way to help cheer the Griz on to victory in Saturday’s game. The Pep Rally will also feature the annual “lighting of the M” tradition and there will be fireworks at dusk.
Saturday, September 25 — 9:55 a.m.
The annual Homecoming Hustle 5K Race begins in downtown Missoula. The 5K race, 3K walk or 5K relay will begin just before the Homecoming Parade and follow the parade route from North Higgins onto campus culminating in a lap around Washington Grizzly Stadium. Cheer on the race participants or enter the race yourself.
Saturday, September 25 — 10:00 a.m.
The Homecoming Parade marches through downtown, across the bridge, and on to the university. The parade starts at the north end of Higgins Avenue and head south to University Avenue where it turns east and continues toward campus. The parade features the UM marching and alumni bands; local high school bands; floats from local schools, groups and organizations; and numerous entries from local businesses. The parade is one of the most eagerly anticipated events of Homecoming Week and is a fun event for the entire family.
Saturday, September 25 — 1:05 p.m.
This year’s UM Homecoming Football Game features the Montana Grizzlies and their rivals from Sacramento State. Tailgating will undoubtedly take place around the stadium and many local sports bars are hosting game parties for those who cannot attend the game in person.
Break out your maroon and silver and celebrate the 2010 University of Montana Homecoming. Check out the complete list of all Homecoming activities online or contact the UM Office of Alumni Relations.