Tenaciousness. Passion. Openness. These are some of the qualities that bring the Spartan family together and also set it apart. Michigan State University will be celebrating what it means to be a part of this family and be “Uniquely Spartan” with its 2017 homecoming theme Oct. 15-22.
Tyler Oakley is an independent creator on YouTube – one of the largest digital platforms to date. With nearly 8 million subscribers on YouTube and more than 23 million across his social media platforms, he has been established as one of the most influential LGBTQ+ vloggers and is an A-Lister in the digital age.
The homecoming Court this year consists of 10 individuals, all distinguished by their leadership, community involvement, academic excellence and Spartan pride and chosen as "ambassadors" by fellow Spartans.
The "Glow Green" tradition will take place again this year, calling for all Spartans to switch out their porch or house lights for green ones during homecoming week. Spartans also can show their Spartan Spirit by submitting a "Glow Green" photo to the MSU Alumni Association Facebook page, or by using #GlowGreen on Twitter or Instagram to win one of three prizes.
Homecoming 2017 week features many events for the MSU community to attend. Following is a list of some of these events. For a complete list, including alumni tailgate locations, visit the Alumni Association's website. Times and dates are subject to change and/or cancellation.
Hayrides and History
6-8 p.m. Oct. 16, The Rock
Kick off homecoming week with this traditional event. Take a hayride around campus on MSU tractors and learn about MSU’s history. Think you know your MSU trivia? Participate in Trivia for a Tee to win a free homecoming T-shirt. Free apple cider and donuts, while supplies last. Free for all MSU Students, plus one guest. All must show ID.
Sounds of Homecoming
6-8 p.m., Oct. 17, Beaumont Tower
Sit back, relax and enjoy a night full of a'capella music from MSU groups while taking in the scenery of Beaumont Tower. Featuring groups State of Fifths, Ladies First and much more!
Wood Slice Craft Night
7-9 p.m. Oct. 18, MSU Union Ballroom
Decorate your room with something that is Uniquely Spartan. These wood slices were once a tree on campus. We'll provide the wood slice and paint, you just bring the creativity! Free for all MSU students, plus one guest. All must show ID.
Alumni Grand Awards Gala
5:30 p.m. Oct. 19, Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center, Big Ten Room
Join the MSU Alumni Association as we honor some of our more distinguished alumni. This black-tie optional event includes a reception with hosted bar, decadent meal and the opportunity to meet and mingle with this year’s recipients. To register and for more information, go here.
Healthy Homecoming Walk
8 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 20, Demonstration Hall Field
Join us in a friendly walking competition between MSU and Penn State University, in connection with the Exercise is Medicine On Campus initiative. The challenge will consist of walking laps on the sidewalk around this field (approximately ¼ mile) throughout the day. This event is open to faculty, staff, students, and alumni and no registration is required.
Ice Cream at The Rock
12 p.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 20, The Rock
Come out to the Rock and celebrate Homecoming with free Dairy Store ice cream, presented by UAB.
MSU Homecoming Parade
6 p.m. Oct. 20, Downtown East Lansing and MSU Campus
The Homecoming parade travels down Abbot to Grand River and into campus at the Farm Lane entrance, and features more than 130 entries from student and community groups and MSU departments.
Green and White Brunch
12:30 p.m. Oct. 21, Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center, Big Ten Room
Join fellow Spartans and special MSU guests at this traditional Homecoming event. Admission is $40 per adult, $15 for children 12 and under, and includes brunch buffet. Reservations must be made by Oct. 9 and will be accepted in the order received up to the capacity of the venue. To register and for more information, go here.
Homecoming Football Game
3:30 p.m. Oct. 21, Spartan Stadium
The MSU football team and coach Mark Dantonio will take on the Hoosiers of Indiana University for the annual Homecoming football game. Half-time will feature the Spartan Marching Band, the 2017 Homecoming Court, homecoming grand marshal, and the MSU Homecoming Parade award winners.
