Homecoming at Western: Tips and Events You’ll Love

Written by: Brenda Lawrence, 5^th year, Health Science

Homecoming is approaching, and the campus is about to come alive with school spirit! Experience a weekend full of excitement, energy, and unforgettable Mustang memories. With so much happening, it can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with everything you need to know.

What Is Homecoming?

Homecoming is Western’s biggest annual celebration, welcoming alumni back to campus. But it’s not just about alumni; it’s a time for all students to come together and show their Mustang pride. It’s about tradition, spirit, and community. For first years especially, this is your chance to show off your purple pride, make memories with your friends, and feel part of something bigger.

Exciting Things to Do: Saturday, September 27

1. Student Fan Festival

This is the student event of the weekend! It’s completely free and jam-packed with activities:

25+ Free Food Trucks - Yes, you read that right! Enjoy the best foods without spending a dime.
Free Mustangs Football Game - A Western tradition you don’t want to miss! Cheer on the Western Mustangs vs. McMaster Marauders, soak up the stadium energy, and experience purple pride at its peak. Free entry at East Gate with your Western ONECard.
Giveaways + Photo Stations - Walk away with purple swag and a camera roll full of memories.

Doors open at the East Gate of Alumni Stadium at 11 a.m., with the football game kicking off at 1 p.m. Click here for the full student fan festival details!

2. Free Pancake Breakfast

What better way to start off your homecoming then with free pancakes! From 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Concrete Beach, you can fuel up before all the action begins. So come by, kick off the day surrounded by purple pride and enjoy a delicious stack of pancakes! While supplies last, so be sure to come early!

3. Sogs Football Live Stream & Pub Grub

From 2 to 4 p.m. at The Grad Club. With free snacks, cozy vibes, and a big screen, this event is perfect if you’d rather cheer on the Mustangs in a more relaxed setting. Registration required.

4. Campus Walks + Photo Ops

If you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe, wander around and soak in the decorated campus. Take photos in your purple gear by UC Hill, grab a coffee at The Spoke, or hang out at Concrete Beach (pro tip: there will be a very instagram worthy display to take photos in front of!). Trust me, your Instagram grid will thank you.

5. Explore London with Friends

Homecoming isn’t just on campus! Head downtown for a bite, check out the Covent Garden Market, or stroll by Victoria Park. Sometimes stepping off campus into the wonderful city Western University belongs to makes the weekend feel even bigger.

Tips for the Best Homecoming

Stay Hydrated + Fed. Between cheering, walking, and celebrating, you’ll need plenty of energy. Bring a reusable water bottle (refill stations are at the Fan Festival).
Bring Your Western ONECard. It’s your golden ticket to free admission for the Fan Festival and football game.
Plan Ahead. Check the full schedule and decide what’s most exciting to you. Don’t feel pressured to do everything; just do what makes the day fun for you.
Rock Your Purple. The more purple, the better! Need some swag? Check out the Dellelce Family Bookstore on campus for some hoco attire.
Take Breaks. It’s a busy weekend, so rest when you need to. The campus will still be buzzing when you’re ready to jump back in.
Try Something New. Whether it’s a new food truck item, pancake breakfast, or cheering at your very first Mustangs game, lean into the experience.
Make Time For Friends. Between all the events, don’t forget that the best memories often come from just hanging out with your friends. Whether it’s walking to the game together or grabbing a snack, those simple moments matter most.
Remember the Care Hubs. This Saturday, you can also access support on campus at one of three Care Hubs starting at 10 a.m. The Care Hub at Sunset Street and University Drive will be open until 2 a.m. Click here to see the map of Care Hub locations.

Homecoming is a wonderful chance to celebrate what it means to be a Mustang. It’s about school spirit, tradition, and connection. For me, the best part of Homecoming isn’t just about events, it's the time spent with friends. Whether we’re cheering in the stands, wandering around campus, or simply sitting and talking, it’s those moments of connection that make the weekend so memorable. No matter what you end up doing, make sure to soak in that quality time together.

So wear your purple proudly, cheer loudly, and get ready to be part of something special. Here’s to an unforgettable Homecoming. Make it one for the books!

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