There is much more to an SIUC Homecoming than football and parties. It is a tradition for students, returning alumni, area residents and visitors to turn out in force to attend a yearly medley of parades, tailgate parties and football games. But while everyone anticipates Homecoming staples, this weekend’s other offerings should not be overlooked.

Taking in dinner and a show is what many would consider an unconventional way to start Homecoming festivities. On the other hand, getting a group together to attend the opening night of Arcadia is sure to provide some alternative entertainment. Arcadia, a play revolving around a love story set in 1809 and in the present, will be presented at 8 p.m. Friday at McLeod Theater in the Communications Building. Tickets are $5 for students and $10 for the general public. For more information, call the SIUC Theater Department at 453-5741.

For those wanting to start the weekend with a little more sizzle, Friday’s 8 p.m. Saluki Bonfire and Pep Rally are another avenue of choice. Sponsored by the Student Programming Council, the event will feature music and fireworks at Abe Martin Field. Contact SPC at 536-3393 for more information about this Homecoming event.

Advertisement

Saturday morning come out and support another Saluki team as the men’s and women’s cross-country teams sponsor their 22nd annual Saluki Invitational. The women’s team is going for its fifth- consecutive Invitational title, while the men’s team has won four out of the last five invitationals. Besides the Salukis, 14 teams from other schools will be represented at the meet, which will be just west of Abe Martin Field. The excitement begins at 10 a.m. for the women’s team, and at 10:35 a.m. for the men’s team.

After the football Salukis demolish Southwest Missouri State during Saturday afternoon’s 1:30 p.m. game, celebrate by taking in some of SIUC’s nighttime entertainment before heading out to party. If you missed Arcadia Friday, catch it at the same time and place Saturday night. But if you need some stand-up comedy laughs, check out comedian Cary Long at the Student Center Ballrooms for only $3.

Another entertainment option during Homecoming weekend is Alpha Phi Alpha’s 26th annual Miss Eboness Pageant at Shryock Auditorium. For many, Miss Eboness is a highly anticipated Homecoming tradition for the SIUC community. Dress for the event is formal, but this is an excellent excuse to dress up and be seen by classmates, friends and family. Tickets for Miss Eboness are $8 in advance and $10 at the door, and are available at the Shryock Auditorium Box Office. Call 453-3379 for additional information.

Attending these Homecoming weekend events can provide everyone with a different batch of memories to enjoy. But no matter how Salukis choose to enjoy Homecoming, enjoy the weekend in peace so that we can do it all again next year. Go Dawgs!