There was a chill in the air just before sunset as the annual WCU Homecoming parade took place Friday evening.
The streets of downtown Sylva were lined with students, alumni, and community members, all supporting their Catamounts during WCU’s homecoming celebration.
“The parade is like a kick off to homecoming weekend,” says Sally Little, a senior at WCU.
Lauren Johnson, a first year alumni, made a special effort to attend her first homecoming as a graduate.
“I haven’t missed it for the past four years, so I don’t want to start now,” Johnson said.
Campus organizations, sports teams, residences halls, and the band all make up the parade.
Chancellor Belcher and his wife greeted Catamount friends and fans as they walked the parade route
Chancellor Belcher and his wife were Grand Marshalls in the parade as they walked the parade, shaking hands and greeting those along the sides.
Students sported their Catamount pride by building original floats, decorating cars, and coming up with creative entries for their spot in the parade. Some creative floats were Base Camp Cullowhee’s “walking boats” and The Honors College “Whee build the future” car.
Base Camp Cullowhee's Walking Boats
Judges award three parade entries with trophies after the parade. Floats are judged using these categories: creativity, originality, school spirit and participation and announced at the Spirit night following the parade.
Paws brought up the rear of the parade
If you missed Paws the mascot closing up the parade you can find him tomorrow at the football game, which begins at 3 p.m. He will be available for pictures before the game in the main tailgate lot, beginning at 12:30 p.m.
For a complete listing of Homecoming events check out their webpage.
