SIU Homecoming week is something that students looks forward to each year! This year, Homecoming was October 7-12. There were many events to attend such as the Saluki Block Party, Homecoming parade, and the Homecoming football game.
Block Party
There were many things to see and do at the Block Party on October 10th. Food vendors were there, a mechanical bull, Mr. Twist the balloon artist, a rock wall, a DJ, a tie-dye station, and cornhole. My favorite things to do were watching the balloon artist and seeing how long people last on the mechanical bull. The snow cones and bagels were also a big hit.
The students seemed to enjoy Mr. Twist, the tie-dye station, and cornhole the most. Another popular item that people collected at the event was the Saluki hats. This year for Homecoming, our theme was Salukis on the Frontier, so the Student Programming Council passed out foam Saluki cowboy hats for each student with their student ID. Overall, the Saluki Block Party was a big success!
Parade
The Homecoming parade was on October 12th at 10 AM. The parade consisted of many groups including marching bands, Spirit teams, floats, and more! People from surrounding towns came with their schools and did a great job in the parade as well! The Homecoming candidates were also in the parade before the king and queen got crowned that evening. The kids, students, and parents seemed to enjoy the parade and it was definitely another accomplishment for Homecoming week. My favorite part of the parade was our Saluki marching band and Spirit teams!
Football Game and Homecoming Royalty
Last, one of the most exciting events was the Homecoming football game at Saluki Stadium. Saluki Football played against the North Dakota State Bison. The Stadium was full. Additionally, Saluki Spirit Team alumni joined our current Spirit Teams for a dance during halftime as well as the SIU Fight Song.
Also during halftime was an announcement of the parade winners, honoring of the grand marshal, and my personal favorite event, the crowning of the Homecoming royalty! This year’s candidates were Jack Aldihaimawi, Cheyanne Bristol, Izzy Burkhardt, Andre Council, Leslie Duran, Zuzanna Gaik, Lora Judge, and Eric Metz. The 2024 Homecoming Royalty winners were Eric Metz and Lora Judge.
In summary, this year’s SIU Homecoming week was an absolute blast! If you didn’t attend the events or game this year, you have to see the excitement for yourself next year. I hope to see everyone back and ready to celebrate!
