Homecoming weekend is almost here, and Ohio University will be welcoming back alumni to Athens to celebrate.
If you’re headed back to Athens for the weekend, there are tons of things to fill your schedule with. From bar hopping to going to the football game, there is something for every OU graduate to feel the nostalgia the bricks bring to Bobcats’ hearts.
Homecoming parade
The most anticipated event of Homecoming Weekend is the parade. Alumni, students and Athens natives alike will gather on Court Street to watch the show. This year, the Homecoming parade takes place Saturday at 10 a.m. Students, organizations, local businesses and most notably alumni Marching 110 members will all participate in the march down Court Street.
Bobcat Family Tent
The party does not stop after the Homecoming parade wraps up. The Alumni Association is hosting a celebration for all Bobcats current and returning to partake in. The event will be on College Green from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. There will be music and food provided. The event costs $15 for anyone above the age of 10 and registration is required before attending.
Football game
You can keep the Bobcat spirit alive during your trip back and attend the OU football game. The 2024 Homecoming game will be at 3:30 p.m. against Akron. Be sure to dress in your best white and green. Some things change in Athens but supporting the Bobcats will never go out of style.
Tailgate
Before the football game, stop by the tailgate to get in the spirit. Tailgates are being held at the Pepsi Tailgreat Park on 97 Richland Ave. Most schools are hosting their own tent at the tailgate such as The Patton College of Education, The Russ College of Engineering and the College of Business. Show your school spirit by stopping by your college major's tailgate tent or bouncing around other Bobcat celebrations. Most tailgates begin at 11 a.m., but stop by anytime before the game to enjoy some pre-football festivities.
Take a trip down memory lane
After the Homecoming game or parade, a great activity to partake in is visiting your favorite bar from college. Court Street will be packed with Bobcats celebrating the weekend, whether it is in Pigskin, J Bar or discovering a newly added bar since you’ve hit the bricks. It is a great way to celebrate your time in Athens and live out your college glory days.
Jackie O’s
While you are visiting Athens, stop by Jackie O’s, notorious for its craft beers. Jackie O’s is a staple to Athens. The public house is located at 22 W. Union St., and it is a great place to unwind and catch up with friends. The brewery is cozy, welcoming and is always a favorite among Bobcats. It is the perfect place to relive old memories and college stories.
Strouds Run State Park
Strouds Run is the perfect spot to unwind and immerse in the beauty of Athens outside of Court Street. The park is just a few miles from campus and has hiking paths, a beach and surreal views. Strouds is the perfect spot for a relaxing day during your trip back.
Bike trail
Enjoying the nature of Athens does not stop at Strouds. Explore campus in a new way by walking or biking along the Hocking Adena Bikeway. Taking a hike along the path is a great way to see all parts of campus and reconnect with OU’s beautiful scenery.
Local eats
During your nostalgia tour in Athens, you can grab a bite to eat at one of your favorite old spots. Whether it is a bagel from Bagel Street Deli, a hotdog from O’Betty’s or a coffee from Brenen’s or Donkey Coffee, be sure to grab something to eat at one of Athens' local restaurants.
Alumni Gateway
Wrap up your Homecoming trip with an obligatory picture under the gateway. The very same place you walked through freshman year and out senior year is always waiting for you when you return. Be sure to share your Bobcat pride and take pictures of every memory you make.
