But an old tradition is set to return this coming week — Homecoming Week.

This week, WSU sent out a press release on this year’s slate of Homecoming activities.

“Homecoming is a great way to create a sense of community and get excited about being at Weber State,” Heather Cimino, assistant director of Student Involvement and Leadership, said in the release. “This is a great school, and the more you connect and get involved on campus, the more you see that.”

“Homecoming week is your chance to join so many fun activities,” she said. “From the Purple Paw Parade to the Wildcats taking on Idaho State during the football game at the end of the week, there’s a lot to look forward to. Traditions are part of what link together students, alumni, and the community. There are lot of opportunities for shared involvement and celebration, both with time-honored events as well as new ways to spread Wildcat spirit.”

The press release notes that festivities will kick off with the Purple Paw Parade on Saturday from 9 a.m.-noon in downtown Ogden. The tradition of Light the W will return Monday.

“Light the W is a can’t-miss event that really captures the spirit of homecoming,” Badali said. “The tradition began in 1937 and has grown and evolved over the decades. There will be a pep rally, live music, food trucks, and a countdown from the WSU Spirit Squad before guests look to the hillside above campus to see the solar-powered W illuminate.”

Homecoming Week culminates Oct. 17, with Weber State’s football game against Idaho State and Fan Fest directly preceding it.

Badali said there’s much more to the typical Fan Fest this year.

“Fan Fest, which is the free family friendly tailgate party before Saturday’s football game, is even bigger this year,” she said. “Expect food, giveaways, and activities for all ages — plus, lots of game day energy as fans get ready to pack Stewart Stadium.”

She said Homecoming Week has one overarching goal as it always has.

“All week long, there are opportunities to celebrate the community and traditions we’ve all built together,” she said. “Whether someone joins year after year or is coming for the first time, homecoming is a time to connect.”

For more information, including a full schedule of events, visit https://www.weber.edu/homecoming.