Homecoming week is almost here! Ball State is gearing up to offer a mix of classic traditions and exciting events to celebrate this special time. With activities happening all over campus and involving various colleges, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
For our alumni, here’s a handy guide to explore the many ways you can join in when you come back to visit. We can’t wait to welcome to our Cardinals home to the nest!
WEEKDAY EVENTS
Homecoming Food Truck Festival
Location: Brown Family Amphitheater
Monday, October 13th from 5-8 p.m.
To launch Homecoming week, the Homecoming Steering Committee is partnering with Spirit + Traditions to bring you the Homecoming Food Truck Festival. Come enjoy dinner from a variety of food trucks while soaking in live music, giveaways, and plenty of fun activities. This event welcomes students, faculty and staff, alumni, and the entire Muncie community!
Homecoming Movie Night
Location: Pruis Hall
Monday, October 14th at 7:30 p.m.
Join us for a special screening of Disney Pixar’s Cars, featuring Lightning McQueen and Tow Mater on the big screen! Enjoy themed refreshments, soak up the Homecoming spirit, and unwind with friends. This free event is open to students, alumni, faculty and staff, and the entire Muncie community.
Blood Drive
Location: Pruis Hall Main Lobby
Wednesday, October 15th from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Sign up today to make a difference by donating blood through the Versiti Blood Center of Indiana.
Air Jam & Royalty Coronation
Location: Emens Auditorium
Thursday, October 16th at 7:30pm
Going strong since 1987, Air Jam is Ball State’s most popular Homecoming event! Come watch student organizations dance and compete in the annual lip-sync competition. You can purchase your tickets in advance to ensure you get a seat for this incredible event. Purchase your tickets online or purchase at the Emens box office starting October 1st.
Bed Race
Location: Riverside Avenue
Friday, October 17th at 12 p.m.
It’s time again for one of Homecoming’s most exciting traditions since 1980! Each Bed Race team consists of five people – four pushing the bed, and one riding on it. Teams will compete against the clock, two teams at a time, on a 100-yard course. Come and cheer the teams on with us!
HOMECOMING WEEKEND
Chase Charlie 5k
Location: Begins at City Hall downtown & Ends at Emens Auditorium on Riverside Avenue
Saturday, October 18th at 8:45 a.m.
Ball State will once again be joining forces with Chase Charlie, which will see its 5K take place on Homecoming morning. Enjoy this exciting atmosphere as you run through campus along the parade route. The finish line is next to Emens Auditorium on Riverside Avenue, so make plans to stay and watch the Homecoming parade after you are finished.
Homecoming Parade
Location: Downtown Muncie & Ball State Campus
Saturday, October 18th at 9:00 a.m.
The Homecoming Parade has been one of Ball State’s greatest traditions since it began in 1939. University organizations and Muncie community businesses and groups enter floats, cars, bands, and even horses to show off their Cardinal Pride! Come and see all that Ball State University and the Muncie community has to offer.
Alumni Parade Viewing Party
Location: Corner of University and McKinley Avenue
Saturday, October 18th at 9:00am
Join us in one of the best locations to watch the Homecoming parade! Email homecoming@bsu.edu to register. Complimentary refreshments will be available, as well as many door prize giveaways!
CharlieTown Tailgate
Location: Alumni Center Outside Area
Saturday, October 18th from 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Rev up with your fellow Cardinals and gather outside the Alumni Center to celebrate Ball State Homecoming at CharlieTown!! Join us for fun, food, excitement, and a lot of Cardinal Spirit!
Homecoming Football Game
Location: Scheumann Stadium
Saturday, October 18th at 3:30 p.m.
Come watch our Cardinals take on the University of Akron for our annual Homecoming football game! Be sure to wear your Cardinal red and get LOUD! Tickets are available for purchase HERE or at the gate!
