Colorado State University is celebrating 150 years of tradition this year, which means this Homecoming weekend is going to be bigger and better than ever before. Throughout the week, events will be held on and off campus to unite new students, alumni and family in CSU spirit. From old traditions to newer family-friendly events, there are plenty of things to do for all ages. 

1. Festival on The Oval

The Oval is always a good place to bring family or friends in town. It will be even more special this weekend. From 3-6 p.m. on Friday, there will be food trucks parked along The Oval, activities for kids and adults alike and live music by Kerry Pastine and the Crime Scene and Kind Dub. This event is free, except for food and drink, and open to everyone. Many organizations on campus and representatives from the different colleges will also be at the festival, so people can show their friends and family how they get involved at CSU.

2. Homecoming Parade

The Homecoming Parade is an annual tradition that brings the Fort Collins and campus communities together. Starting at The Oval and ending on Laurel Street, parade floats will travel through campus, highlighting student organizations and various community groups. The parade is always a great source of Ram pride and should not be missed. Starting at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, the parade will go until 6 p.m. Check out the route here.

3. Friday Night Lights

Starting just after the parade at 6:30 p.m. and running through 8 p.m., this event serves as a pep rally for the upcoming football game. An annual bonfire and lighting of the A always serves up Ram pride for friends and family alike, and a huge firework display will add to the excitement. It will begin at the Lory Student Center.

4. Homecoming football game

What would Homecoming weekend be without football? The game, especially now that it is located on campus, is a hit for students and families alike. There are plenty of tailgates and other activities leading up to the game, which kicks off at 8 p.m. on Saturday. It’s a great opportunity to show people the new stadium, as well as to cheer on the Rams against San Diego State. Tickets for the football game can be found on CSU’s ticket office website.

5. Sunday Funday

Sunday Funday, located at Horse & Dragon Brewing Company, is the last of the Homecoming weekend events. It is a relaxing event for alumni, students, future Rams, faculty and anyone else interested in celebrating the end of Homecoming. The event, put on by the Alumni Association, will be from 3-5 p.m. You can register here.

Leo Friedman can be reached at entertainment@collegian.com or on Twitter @LeoFriedman13.