DeKALB – Homecoming  at NIU has arrived. Starting Sept. 27 to Oct. 3, NIU will be hosting events all week before the homecoming game on Oct. 2. The abundance of activities students and families can get involved with can be overwhelming, but here are the top five go-to events to attend. 

1. The Yard

The NIU Alumni Association has orchestrated the event for family and friends to interact under the homecoming tent located on the west side of the Huskie Stadium on Oct. 2 for free. From 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., people can visit the pregame and enjoy getting their faces painted, some complimentary snacks and refreshments, music, a photo booth and the shared homecoming spirit from NIU’s marching band and cheerleading team. 

This event is an opportunity for alumni to connect with others, gain some nostalgia from being on campus again, said Reggie Bustinza, executive director of Operations and Alumni Relations.

2. Homecoming Game 

Come support NIU vs. Eastern Michigan Oct. 2 starting at 1:30 p.m. Find your tickets here. Students get free admission while visitors must pay a fee of $28 to $33. After visiting the tailgate, people can swing by the stadium to share the thrill and excitement at the forefront to support the Huskies. 

3. Homecoming Dress Up Day

During the week of homecoming, students can partake in getting in the spirit of dressing up according to theme. For example, “Decades Day” is a classic theme to dress up as. First-year students get to dress in ‘90s attire, sophomores in the ‘80s, juniors ‘70s and seniors get ‘60s. Students and staff are welcome to join the tradition and make new memories for Huskie pride. For more information, visit the Events Calendar on the NIU website to learn more about future events.

4. Late Night Movie

Grab some popcorn and snacks and chill for a late-night showing of “Hairspray” in the Carl Sandburg Auditorium in the Holmes Student Center Sept. 29 at 8 p.m. Get into the cozy feel of a movie night before the big hype of homecoming. Free of entrance, come with friends and enjoy a night in. 

5. A Night at Holmes

The Holmes Student Center is hosting a night event full of games, activities, music and more. Students can look forward to a variety of fun activities such as karaoke in the lower den, a Super Smash Bros tournament and plenty more. This is an opportunity for students to interact and have fun in the excitement of it taking place at night.