Traditionally, homecoming is a time to celebrate school spirit and welcome back alumni, but after COVID-19’s disruption and a year online, this week Fresno State is celebrating the homecoming of all Bulldogs, both current and vintage.
Whitney Ballard, graduate student and member of the homecoming committee, said this year’s theme, “The Rise of the Bulldog,” was inspired by the football team’s strong start to the season and represents the return of a renewed sense of Bulldog pride.
“Homecoming doesn’t really feel like a typical week because there’s always something that’s going on,” Ballard said. “It really brings the Bulldog spirit to campus, and I’m excited that we’re finally able to celebrate that feeling together again.”
Normally, the committee begins planning in Spring, but due to COVID-19, this year it only had a few months to coordinate the event, committee member Bianca Palmer said.
“If things were perfect, we would have had a committee together since last spring,” Palmer said. “But because of the circumstances, we had at most three months to collaborate and figure out what we’re doing.”
Nevertheless, the team of eight was able to pack homecoming week with plenty of spirited activities.
The week of events began Monday with the Fired up by the Fountain Kickoff and the Pawrade.
Activities continue Tuesday at 11 a.m. with Spirit and Swag in front of the Kennel Bookstore. Tie dye and free homecoming gear are available from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. outside Graves Hall.
Wind down on Wednesday with a 1-mile wellness walk. The 11 a.m. joint collaboration between the homecoming committee and the Health Center will also feature music, fresh fruit and various activities on the lawn in front of the Bookstore.
Later in the evening, turn up the action and watch the Avengers’ “Black Widow” from the Bulldog Stadium lawn.
Arrive early to catch up, enjoy some music and grab a bite to eat. Gates open at 5 p.m., and the movie starts at 7 p.m. No lawn chairs or pets are allowed.
Watch the women’s volleyball team as it competes against the San José Spartans Thursday evening at the Save Mart Center. Stop by the student spirit zone for giveaways.
Bring out neon clothes for this Friday for “Let’s Glow Crazy.” The glow in the dark party kicks off at 7 p.m. in front of the bookstore and will feature live music by DJ Kay Rich, mini golf, free prizes and more.
Jog with the ‘Dogs virtual 5K also begins on Friday. Complete the marathon from any venue, snap a photo and log the time for an opportunity to compete for several prizes.
Participants can jog with their dogs for a chance to win them a spa treatment from Victor E. III’s personal groomer. One of the prizes will be awarded to the most spirited runner, so make sure to wear red and show off that Bulldog pride.
This Saturday, the Bulldogs football team takes on the Nevada Wolfpack at 4:30 p.m.. Prep for game day with a mindfulness walk. The hour and a half, three mile stroll starts at the Smittcamp Alumni House.
Afterward, join fellow football fans for the official student tailgate. Tailgating starts at 2 p.m. with music, food, games and homecoming giveaways.
All on-campus events are free; “Black Widow” and the virtual 5k are also free, but registration is required. Visit the homecoming committee’s webpage for more details.