Homecoming is generally a time where Huskie pride is on parade.

This year is no different.

This year’s homecoming parade takes a unique route, starting 9 a.m. Saturday from the corner of Second Street and Lincoln Highway.

The parade route will cycle through campus on its way to the Chick Evans Fieldhouse.

Upward of 45 floats will be featured from organizations all over NIU and DeKalb, according to Becky Harlow, assistant director of student involvement and leadership development.

“It’s a great way to cap off the week,” Harlow said. “The parade is a cool thing because we march toward the football stadium, so it’s a great way to build up the Huskie spirit and get people excited about this huge day.”

Mike Hartman, junior nursing major, is one student excited about this year’s festivities.

Having missed out on last year’s week of events, he plans on attending all of this year’s, including the parade.

“I’d love to go [to the parade] this year,” Hartman said. “I want to see my Homecoming court candidates in person.”

Pat Kaiser, senior marketing major, was nominated for this year’s Homecoming court by his fraternity.

A mainstay of all things Huskie, Kaiser said he enjoys seeing the interaction between students and NIU at university functions like the parade.

“I’m looking forward to seeing all the people with a lot of school spirit, up early in the morning on a Saturday before the football game enjoying the festivities,” Kaiser said. “Homecoming week is a good time to be on campus.”