Weber State University is preparing to launch a weeklong homecoming celebration featuring various traditions and community events for students, alumni, and local residents. The festivities include the historic Light the W celebration, a community parade, and a culminating football game against Idaho State at Stewart Stadium.
Building Community Through Tradition
The celebration is designed to foster a sense of community and school pride among the university population. Heather Cimino, the assistant director of Student Involvement and Leadership, said homecoming serves as a way to create a sense of community and generate excitement about being part of the Weber State experience. Cimino noted that as students become more involved on campus, they gain a deeper appreciation for the university.
Weber State Public Relations Director Rachel Badali said the week provides an opportunity for people to participate in long-standing traditions that link students, alumni, and the community together. Badali indicated that the celebrations offer various ways to spread Wildcat spirit through both time-honored events and new ways of engagement.
Iconic Traditions Return
The week of festivities begins with the Purple Paw Parade, scheduled for Oct. 10 from 9 a.m. to noon. This event invites Wildcats and community members to walk through downtown Ogden to show their purple pride, often accompanied by pets.
Following the parade, the university will host the iconic Light the W celebration on Oct. 12 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. located at the Stewart Stadium north parking lot. This tradition, which dates back to 1937, has evolved over several decades. The event features a pep rally, live music, food trucks, and a countdown led by the WSU Spirit Squad before the solar-powered W illuminates on the hillside above campus. Attendees also have the opportunity to create their own luminaries to light the evening.
Student Engagement and Connection
Student leadership is also highlighting specific events for the student body, such as Casino Night. WSU Student Body President Emmett Busby expressed his excitement for the free event, which is scheduled for Oct. 13 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Shepherd Union Ballrooms. The event will feature casino games, food, and prizes.
Busby, who noted that associating positive feelings with the university through social connections is beneficial for academic life, shared that he met his best friend at a previous Casino Night. He noted the event provides significant opportunities to meet new people and build social networks. Busby expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming event while discussing his plans for attire, weighing the choice between a sharp tuxedo and his classic purple striped overalls.
Homecoming Finale and Football
The homecoming festivities will conclude on Oct. 17 with Fan Fest and a football game. Fan Fest is described by university officials as a free, family-friendly tailgate party for all attendees. This year's event is expected to be larger than previous years, featuring food, giveaways, games, and activities for all ages.
Fan Fest will take place at the Stewart Stadium north parking lot from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., immediately preceding the homecoming football game. The Wildcats are scheduled to play Idaho State at 1 p.m. at Stewart Stadium. Weber State students can access two free tickets for the game through the Weber State Ticket Office website. According to Badali, the energy from the tailgate is intended to prepare fans to fill the stadium for the matchup.
Event Details and Access
A full schedule of the Weber State University homecoming events, along with a football ticket discount code, is available on the university's official homecoming website. The university noted that the week offers opportunities for celebration regardless of whether an individual is a long-time participant or attending for the first time.
