Kent State students lead last year’s Homecoming Parade.
The university celebrates this year’s Homecoming on
Saturday, Oct. 5.

Kent State University will celebrate its Homecoming Saturday, Oct. 5. This year’s Homecoming theme, “New and Old, Forever Blue and Gold,” will honor Kent State’s past while looking to the university’s future.

“This year’s theme really embodies the transitions Kent State and the community are going through now,” says Joy Foreman, assistant director of outreach and Homecoming chair. “The university is constantly evolving, but no matter what changes on campus, there’s always that Kent State pride. That always stays consistent.”

Sponsored by the Kent State University Alumni Association, the festivities will begin with the 13th annual Bowman Cup 5K race at 8 a.m. followed by the complimentary alumni continental breakfast and parade viewing at the Williamson Alumni Center, 1200 Main St. in Kent.

The Homecoming parade will begin at 11 a.m. this year, an hour later than previous years. Alumni, fans, faculty, staff and students can expect a variety of parade entries from numerous campus organizations and the community. Following the parade, the Kent State University Alumni Association will host tours of newly rejuvenated downtown Kent aboard Lolly the Trolley.

Other activities will include the May 4 Visitors Center Open House, the third annual Kiss on the K and a free concert featuring Flash in the Pan, Kent State’s own steel drum band. New this year, the Kent State Fashion School will host a grand opening reception for the TechStyleLAB and a Fashion Walk on the new Esplanade extension.

The whole family should come watch the Golden Flashes battle the Northern Illinois Huskies at 3:30 p.m. at Dix Stadium. Flashes’ fans are asked to take part in a “Gold Out” at the game and wear Kent State gold to show support for the team. Homecoming 2013 shirts are available in gold and can be purchased at the university bookstore. Fans also are encouraged to purchase tickets early to avoid long ticket lines on game day. A Family Fun Zone with inflatables, caricature artists and other family friendly activities will be located on the south side of the stadium. The 2013 Homecoming King and Queen will be announced during halftime.

“Homecoming is the best time for Kent State to come together to celebrate the past and future,” Foreman says. “We have so many activities planned – there really is something for everyone.”

Additional information and a full list of events are available at www.ksualumni.org/homecoming.