October 1st is this year’s date of a much anticipated annual community event in Missoula – the ever-popular University of Montana Homecoming Parade. A popular family event, the UM Homecoming Parade generally features over 120 entries complete with marching bands, parade floats, local dignitaries, and more. It’s fun for the entire family.
This year’s Homecoming theme, “We Are Family,” celebrates how the University’s diverse family of alumni, faculty, students, and staff unites the Missoula and Montana communities.
The 2011 University of Montana Homecoming Parade begins at 10 a.m. with the route beginning downtown on North Higgins, going south across the Higgins bridge, on through the Hip Strip, continuing south to University Avenue, and then turning east toward the University.
The 2011 parade marshals are UM President Royce Engstrom and his wife, Mary. Honorary parade marshals are Montana historian Hal Stearns and retiring Montana Commissioner of Higher Education, Sheila Stearns.
Organizations interested in participating in the 2011 University of Montana Homecoming Parade can submit an application up until 2:00 p.m. on Friday, September 23. Find the UM Homecoming Parade application here.
Other Popular 2011 University of Montana Homecoming Events:
Yell Night Pep Rally and Bonfire on the UM Oval – Fri. Sept 30, 8:00 p.m.
Missoulians are invited to join Grizzlies head football coach Robin Pflugrad, along with the football team, cheerleaders, Marching Band, and Griz mascot Monte, at the annual bonfire event. The traditional Lighting of the M follows at dusk.
Homecoming Hustle 5K Run – Sat. Oct 1, 9:45 a.m.
Immediately preceding the Homecoming Parade is the third annual Homecoming Hustle 5K race that starts at 9:45 Saturday at the intersection of Higgins and Broadway. All proceeds from race entry fees go to The University of Montana Track and Field Team.
Alumni Homecoming TV Tailgate – Sat. Oct 1, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The public is invited to join fellow Griz fans at the Alumni Homecoming TV Tailgate. Held in the Adams Center’s East Auxiliary Gym, tailgaters can watch the game on a big-screen TV and enjoy food, beverages, and prize drawings. The TV tailgate event is free to attend. A valid ID is required for alcohol purchase.
UM Homecoming Football Game – Sat. Oct 1, 1:05 kick-off
The Montana Grizzlies take on the Northern Colorado Bears in Washington-Grizzly Stadium. GO GRIZ!