Sunday, Sept. 30 will mark the kick-off of ETSU’s well-anticipated homecoming celebrations. This year, festivities follow a theme inspired by unrelenting Buc pride, “One Giant Leap for Buc Pride.” The Student Government Association promises that festivities will be out of this world.

“Be ready for an exciting year,” said Dylan Fields, secretary of SGA. “We’re changing a few things but at the same time bringing back old tradition. We’re setting our eyes on the great big galaxy around us just to see where our footprints will lead.”

With over twenty events to choose from, there is something for everyone and countless ways to get involved for students and faculty alike. Celebrations begin Sunday at 7:30p.m. with Nashville’s infamous Judah and the Lion in concert at the ETSU Mini-Dome. Tickets are available up to Sept. 29 at no cost to students with ID and $10 for guests and faculty.

Campus celebrations continue on Monday, Oct. 3 with a blood drive competition as ETSU gives back and supports local blood banks. To participate in the competition, organizations must sign up for a time for members to give blood. Points will be awarded according to the total units of blood given by each organization. Momentum keeps building as the week progresses with Homecoming King and Queen campaigns launching Tuesday, then a banner competition, College Spirit Day, Charity Carnival and 0.5K race, men and women’s soccer games and a volleyball game to keep Bucs engaged and entertained throughout the week.

Probably the biggest highlight that leads up to the football game on Saturday against Gardner Webb University, is the homecoming parade set for Friday, Oct. 5 at 4 p.m., starting in front of the University School. The parade will be followed by a pep rally. Each student organization will be given the chance to boast their creativity and prove their pride by building a float under this year’s theme, sporting blue and gold costumes and rallying for the the loudest and most convincing school spirit group chants.

For more detailed information on homecoming events, visit etsu.edu/homecoming, or get in touch with your student organization leaders to plan to participate in homecoming events.