Staff Writer- Linnea Noeldner
Beginning at 6 p.m. on Sept. 29th, 2025, in the Evelyn Young Dining Room, Gustavus’s Homecoming week will commence. Organized by the Campus Activities Board, this weeklong series of events highlights Gustie pride, inclusion, and community. The traditional Homecoming is a celebration of returning students, incoming freshmen, and Gustavus alumni, and brings the different classes together.
The theme of the 2025 Homecoming is Light Up the Hill, a neon lights vibe in tune with the well-known motto of “Gusties Will Shine”. Senior Nora Henson and Junior Mary Steffen are the two Traditions executives on the Campus Activities Board who also coordinate other cherished Gustavus traditions such as President’s Ball and Midnight Express.
“Homecoming is a great time for students to show their Gustie pride, make connections, and have fun,” Henson said.
While Homecoming is a week that honors tradition, student feedback is another piece considered in the planning of it all. Taking student input into account is a function of the Campus Activities Board and both Traditions executives agreed in organizing this year’s Homecoming to give the events a new ‘twist’.
“We tried to add more interactive elements to each of the events this year. For example, with window painting, instead of it just being organizations painting the windows, there’s also going to be an individual painting contest. There will be a gift card as the prize.” Steffen said.
In addition to the window painting update, students are able to participate in tie-dye on Thursday, starting at 6:30 p.m. Gusties are able to decorate their homecoming shirts before the game on Saturday, as well as bring any scrunchies, headbands, or other gear to add some Gustie flair.
The Homecoming shirts will be for sale throughout the week, along with the tie-dye event. For $5, students can grab their shirt designed by one of Gustavus’s own students, Junior Rebecca Craig, who will also be starting the Gustavus community off by painting the main display as the first window painting of the week.
With all the festivities, one of the most recognized portions of the week is the big game, Gustavus against Carlton. A time where family, alumni, and students come together to cheer on Gustavus’s very own and wish them all the best. To make the day even more engaging, family-friendly activities such as bounce houses and a petting zoo will also be available.
The Alumni Tent, where Friday and Saturday evening events will be taking place, will also have its daytime activities. Students can pop in for snacks, but there will be a beer garden dubbed the “Gustie Pub” with Gustie-owned brewing companies such as Castle Danger, Bent Paddle, and Chankasha, where those of age can enjoy refreshments during the game.
When the first half of the game finishes, the Homecoming court will be brought out and crowned. A form filled out by the students determines the court of 8 seniors, and a second vote during the week decides the two crowned individuals, a king, a queen, or otherwise. The support of the Gustie royalty is encouraged with participation and enthusiasm from peers, making the tradition especially meaningful.
Along with CAB, Gustavus Dining Service also plays a key role by working to bring students the best time during the week. Assistant Catering Directors Stephanie Marsh and Margi Willmert are among those helping ensure the week runs smoothly.
“Maybe football isn’t your thing, but I still enjoy the energy of the day. Just tag along with friends that are going and whether you watch the game or not, there is plenty to do. It’s a fun, friendly atmosphere.” Marsh said.
On Saturday morning, students are welcome to come to the dining hall for pancakes made by alumni. With a variety of toppings to choose from, it’s a chance to enjoy a meal before the big game while connecting with the Gusties who came before them.
“It’s fun to see both students and alumni because the alumni, for example, donate a large amount of the tent and get to come and see current students using it. We have so much fun because we get to see so many families and to see them grown up with their little ones in the bouncing houses.” Willmert said.
Overall, the Homecoming week promises to be a time of connection with friends and family, current students, and past students. Everyone is welcome to attend the events and activities throughout the week, and in the end, the aim is to celebrate Gustavus and the diversity it holds within its community. Whether you’re an incoming freshman or a graduating senior, Homecoming is a kickoff of the school year and a time-honored tradition that brings together alumni, current students, and first-years to celebrate what it means to be a Gustie.