It’s almost that time of year again- a week of school spirit unlike any other. Homecoming is one of the most beloved times of the year, but with so many different events going on, it can get a little overwhelming. Let Distraction guide you through some of the major events of the week so you can navigate Homecoming like a pro.

O-Cheer: If you’re not afraid to bust a move in front of a crowd, O-Cheer is for you. Student organizations form teams that write and choreograph stories that are tailored to the year’s theme. Complete with crazy costumes and impressive set designs, O-Cheer is a crowd favorite that draws hundreds of people each year. The participating organizations certainly know how to put on a good show, so if you’ve never been to O-Cheer, give it a shot. It’s always an added bonus when your uncoordinated friends decide to participate and you’re given a good year’s worth of blackmail.

HP Homecoming Concert: Like good music? Want to see a well-known artist on our very own campus? The Homecoming concert is a great way to de-stress and rock out to live music with your friends. This year’s lineup? UM undergrad and DJ Eche Palante, T-Pain and Waka Flocka Flame. You never know what’s going to happen at a live concert- just make sure to get there early to get a good spot by the stage.

Homecoming Parade: NBA player James Jones, Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly and former “Early Show” anchor Maggie Rodriguez are just a few grand marshals who’ve led the Homecoming Parade in past years. Each year, students, faculty, alumni and young children line Stanford Drive as student organizations throw free goodies to the crowd as they pass (and who doesn’t love free stuff?) and the spirit is always exhilarating. The parade kicks off one of the best nights of homecoming, so you won’t want to miss it.

Hurricane Howl: The peak of Homecoming festivities is Hurricane Howl, a nightlong celebration of this great university. The night starts with delicious food trucks along Stanford Drive, and you’ll want to grab a bite to keep yourself going throughout the night. Hop over to the aforementioned Homecoming Parade for a while then find a comfy spot by Lake Osceola. Settle in for some beautiful fireworks and the traditional boat burning that’ll hopefully send our team to victory the next day.

Football Game: End your Homecoming experience by cheering on the ‘Canes at Sunlife Stadium. Now is the time to really show your school spirit and send our opponent home in defeat. Do it up before the game and get #rowdy at your favorite frat’s tailgate (just make sure to stay hydrated). This year, we play the University of Virginia, and everyone will be there to watch some football and celebrate the end of a great week. This isn’t the game to leave at half-time. Yes, we know everyone is doing it, but let’s all just try to stick around long enough to sing the Alma Mater, okay?

words_madison cramer