Western Carolina University’s Homecoming 2016 kicks off Monday, Oct. 24, under the “Purple Reigns” theme, with activities and performances scheduled for each day of the week.
WCU international students march down Main Street in Sylva during the 2015 Homecoming parade. Photo from WCU News.
The notable Homecoming activities include concerts, a comedy show, the Homecoming parade and the football game.
The Catamount Walkabout, an event designed to raise awareness of the Samaritan’s Feet organization and the nearly 1.5 billion people without proper footwear, will take place at 5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 24 in the Ramsey Center concourse.
Students interested in free tie-dye t-shirts, food and drinks may be interested in attending the “Carnival event” from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 25 on the UC Lawn.
Second City, Chicago’s renowned sketch and improvisational group, will perform WCU’s annual Homecoming comedy show at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 26 at the John W. Bardo Fine and Performing Arts Center. The satirical performance, titled “Free Speech! (While Supplies Last)”, will feature scenes, songs and improv focused on American politics.
Students get free admission to the Second City show with their university Cat Card. Advance tickets are $13 for university faculty and staff; $18 for general admission; and $15 per ticket for groups of 20 or more. Tickets purchased on the day of the event cost $5 more. Tickets can be purchased at the Ramsey Center box office.
The annual Homecoming concert will headline Mayday Parade along with The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus and Rescue Party at 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 27 in the Ramsey Regional Activity Center.
WCU student tickets purchased in advance are $8 for seating and $12 for standing. Non-WCU student tickets purchased in advance are $14 for seating and $18 for standing. Tickets purchased on the day of the event are $4 more. All tickets can be purchased at the Ramsey Center box office or online.
The Homecoming Parade will take place at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 28 in downtown Sylva. The parade will feature community and student floats, university cheerleaders, the Homecoming Court and the Pride of the Mountains Marching Band.
The Homecoming football game against the Mocs of the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga will take place at 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29 and tailgating will begin at noon. The Homecoming award winners and court, along with the Homecoming king and queen will be recognized at halftime.
Following the football game will be a concert featuring Mario at 8 p.m. in the UC Grandroom. WCU students receive free admission with their Cat Card and all other tickets are $5.
A full schedule of Homecoming events can be found on WCU’s website.
