ASU Homecoming: Celebrating Sun Devil Nation Through the Decades
Tag: Blog • Community Candids
Nothing says school spirit like Homecoming and this is the weekend to celebrate the Devils Through the Decades! Its a time when school faculty, students, and alumni rally together to show their school pride. Homecoming is a one-of-a-kind, memorable experience that you don’t want to miss. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s in store for this year’s homecoming festivities…
Pro Tip: Homecoming festivities run November 13-19, a few days ahead of the main event (aka Game Day on Saturday - kick off at 12:15 p.m. v. Oregon State). Make sure to check the official ASU Homecoming website for updated information on festivities happening before and after the game.
Photo credit: ASU Now
Lantern Walk
One of Arizona State’s oldest and most treasured traditions, first celebrated in 1917. Students, Faculty and Alumni climb to the top of the iconic Hayden Butte Preserve, popularly known as “A” Mountain, carrying lit lanterns to light up Tempe, following in the footsteps of their Sun Devil ancestors. Once at the top of “A” Mountain Homecoming Royalty are announced and Sparky lights up the "A".
Lantern Walk will take place on Friday, November 18 and begins at the base of "A" Mountain at 6:30 p.m. with a DJ. The hike up the mountain will begin just before 7 p.m.
Photo credit: Arizona State University
The 105-year-old tradition symbolizes the wish for a bright future and prosperity. Not only is The Lantern Walk a way to pass down Sun Devil tradition -- it’s good opportunity to network with the ASU Community as the hike up gives participants a special bonding experience that cannot be replicated.
Pro Tip: Come early and be prepared. The nearest parking to the Lantern Walk meet up location is City Hall Garage, located directly across the street from one of the “A” Mountain trails. You can also park for FREE after 6 p.m. in the 201 S. Ash Parking Garage, located a block west of "A" Mountain.
Homecoming Parade
A few hours before kickoff (kickoff is 12:15 p.m.), Sun Devils flood the streets of Downtown Tempe for a Homecoming Parade. Student organization floats, the ASU Marching Band, colleges, departments, community organizations, and local celebrities get together to show their school pride (and hopefully stir up some good luck for the big game). The parade takes place on University Drive between Forest Avenue and McAllister Avenue on Saturday, November 19 and steps off at 9 a.m. this year.
Photo credit: ASU Now
Block Party
The ASU Homecoming Block Party takes place immediately after the Homecoming parade in a festival-type atmosphere. This free, family-friendly event is open to the public and boasts a 14-acre footprint. Attendees will find over 100 tents offering something for the entire family to enjoy. This year, the Block Party begins at 9 a.m.
Pro Tip: Bring the kids! Spend time walking around the Block Party to explore the games, giveaways and tons of hands-on experiences.
While you are at the Block Party, interact with ASU student-led organizations like the Hispanic Business Student Association (HBSA) who will host their annual tailgate fundraiser at the NE corner of College Avenue & University Dr. (Sonoran hot dogs - yum!), or the Alumni Association for free ASU swag, yard games, and pre-kickoff activities at Sparky's Touchdown Tailgate at College Avenue Commons.
Want more info on ASU Homecoming 2022? Check out asu.edu/homecoming for more.