Homecoming Week

Homecoming 2023: October 27-29

Homecoming at WCU conjures images of crisp autumn Cullowhee weather, Catamount Football, the Pride of the Mountains Marching Band, tailgating with friends, and more. 

We hope you'll come “home” to Cullowhee this November. Discover the events below.

For questions or more information, contact the Office of Engagement at 828.227.7335 or alumni@wcu.edu

Schedule of Events

Friday, October 27

Homecoming Parade
Downtown Sylva | 6:00 p.m.

Cheer as community and student floats, the WCU cheerleaders and dance team, Homecoming Court, and the Pride of the Mountains Marching Band parade through downtown Sylva.

Alumni Central Parade Party
Downtown Sylva | 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Join us at the McGuire Estate (Paper Mill Lounge) for the Alumni Central Parade Party. The evening will feature social meet and greet opportunities, a casual atmosphere, and prominent parade viewing. 

Alumni are welcome to gather at the McGuire Estate to view the 2023 Homecoming parade, as we all enjoy our first opportunity of Homecoming weekend to sing the fight song with The Pride of The Mountains!  The McGuire Estate will open for WCU Alumni at 4:30 pm. Appetizers will be available after the parade and we will have live music from The Sophisticats! RSVP to join us. The first 200 attendees will receive a free drink ticket! *Must be 21 or older and show ID to receive drink ticket.

Location: McGuire Estate (Paper Mill Lounge) | 553 W Main St, Sylva, NC 28779

Saturday, October 28

WCU Pride of the Mountains Marching Band Rehearsal
E.J. Whitmire Stadium | 7:30 a.m.

Want to catch a sneak peek of the Pride of the Mountains Marching Band? Come watch the band rehearse before their halftime performance at the game!

Chancellor's Brunch and Alumni Awards
University Center Grandroom | 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

All WCU Alumni are invited to join and celebrate the achievements of this year's Alumni Awards recipients. This years recipients are, Brenda Gorsuch ’77, ’80 (Academic Achievement), Debbie Wright ’77 (Professional Achievement), Jonah Slentz ’21 (Young Alumnus), and Bob Roberts (Distinguished Service). The cost of the brunch is $15. Business attire is requested. RSVP required.

WCU Alumni Association Homecoming Central
Stadium Lot | 11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Stop by prior to the kickoff of the WCU vs. Mercer football game and enjoy games and activities, complimentary WCU swag, and a great time!

WCU African American Alumni and Friends Tailgate
Fieldhouse Lot | 11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Stop by the African American Alumni and Friends tailgate to enjoy Frank's Famous Fish Fry! Hosted by Frank Wilson '78

Western Carolina vs. Mercer
E.J. Whitmire Stadium | 2:30 p.m.

Cheer on the Catamounts as they take on the Mercer Bears at E.J. Whitmire Stadium and Bob Waters Field.

Purchase tickets

International Gospel Choir Dinner
Blue Ridge Conference Room | 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

The celebration takes place during Homecoming weekend, including a post-game dinner and a beautiful performance by the alumni choir members on Sunday morning.  Come HOME to Cullowhee for homecoming, and celebrate 50 years of Inspirational Gospel Choir! RSVP required.

 

Sunday, October 29

Inspirational Gospel Choir Performance
Bardo Arts Center Performance Hall | 10:00 a.m.

 

Other Events on Campus

Mountain Heritage Center

WCU Bookstore