The UC Riverside community is invited to join this year’s Homecoming celebrations — both online and in person.
Virtual celebrations, happening now, are offering everyone the opportunity to safely enjoy events from the comfort of their homes, said Jorge Ancona, assistant vice chancellor of Alumni and Constituent Relations.
“We’re still being mindful of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, but we definitely didn’t want to miss an opportunity to celebrate together. We have a magic show, professional networking opportunities, and more,” Ancona said.
Festivities kicked off Nov. 15 and culminate Saturday, Nov. 20 with the men’s basketball game. A range of activities are being offered every day this week, both virtually and in person, including Scotty’s birthday celebration, expert presentations, and networking events.
For those close to campus, UCR Alumni Engagement staff has assembled spirit boxes that are available for purchase. The box contains a UCR branded t-shirt, rally towel, water bottle, pom poms, kettle corn and additional items.
“Whether you choose to cheer the team to victory in person or from the comfort of your home, we have you covered, and it’s a great way to show your Highlander pride,” Ancona said.
Connect virtually at the following online events:
- College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences (CNAS) Homecoming - Nov. 16, 5 p.m.
- Night in with Alumni: First Gen - Nov. 17, 5:30 p.m.
- Honors Alumni Mixer: Nov. 18, 4 p.m.
- Magic Show featuring Dan Chan ’99 - Nov. 19, 6 p.m.
- Black Alumni Chapter: “Where are they now?” - Nov. 20, noon
- Chicano Latino Alumni: Scholarship Recognition Awards - Nov. 20, 2 p.m.
Details and registration: https://alumni.ucr.edu/homecoming
In-person festivities on Friday, Nov. 19, 6-10 p.m. include:
- Fiber glass slide
- Large chair swings
- Fortune teller
- Caricature artist
- DJs
- Bonfire and fireworks show
Details and registration: https://alumni.ucr.edu/homecoming
“It’s been a tough past 18 months; many students have never been on campus until this fall,” said Geo Perez, assistant advisor with UCR’s Associated Students Program Board, the entity in charge of Homecoming activities for students. “Homecoming Week is a great opportunity for students to enjoy some live performances, attractions, and much more with friends in an outdoor event that thrives on Highlander spirit. For those who live nearby, we also welcome them to stop by for our bonfire and fireworks show.”
Safety measures
Each attendee that wishes to visit the fenced dance area or ride/participate in any attractions on Nov. 19, must receive a wristband at any of the Waiver Stations throughout the venue. To receive a wristband, the UCR student or community member must show a Cleared Wellness Check and must wear a mask at all times in the designated areas, regardless of vaccination status. The open nature of the event will allow for social distancing in some areas, but personal protective equipment must be verified before entering more congested locations.
Homecoming game
Homecoming concludes Saturday, Nov. 20 with UCR’s men's basketball game against the Bethesda University Flames. Tip-off time is at 4 p.m. at the Student Recreation Center. Show your Highlander pride by tagging your posts with #UCRHOMECOMING2021 on social media. Ticket prices range from $10-$15. Admission is free for UCR students. Purchase tickets here: https://gohighlanders.com
To join the festivities, register now: homecoming.ucr.edu
