A collage of homecoming photos from the 1950's to present day.
Western Colorado University

Homecoming Weekend

October 10-12, 2025

Celebrating classes ending in 0 and 5

Through the Decades: Homecoming Memories

  • Homecoming festivities in Mountaineer Bowl, probably 1973.
    Halftime Show, 1973
  • The WSC Mountaineer mascot escorts two honored alumni to the Mountaineer Bowl field during halftime activites, 1987.
    Mountaineer Mascot, 1987
  • Ten WSC Homecoming royalty candidates pose for a "formal" photograph in the lounge area of the Student Union, circa 1958.
    Homecoming Royalty, 1958
  • WSC President and Mrs. William Hamilton in the Homecoming parade, ca. 1990.
    Homecoming Parade, 1990
  • WSC's "75 Years, A Tradition, A Future" float at the 1986 Homecoming parade.
    Homecoming Parade, 1986
  • The WSC Pep Band plays for the 1987 Homecoming crowd in Mountaineer Bowl.
    Homecoming Pep Band, 1987
Seen from Van Tuyl Ranch, the collegiate
OUR TRADITIONS

Lighting of the W on Tenderfoot Mountain.

For nearly 80 years, it has united students, alumni, and the Gunnison community in a dramatic celebration of Mountaineer pride. Each year, Western’s Mountain Rescue Team prepares the massive mountainside W with torch-soaked rags, setting the stage for a fiery spectacle.

Celebrate With Western’s Can’t-Miss Events

Four alumni gather for a group photo during the Lighting of the W Party

Memory Lane Reunion Breakfast

Join us at the Memory Lane Reunion Breakfast to reconnect with classmates, alumni, and faculty over a warm meal and shared memories.

Fans in the student section hold their arms out to try to catch a "Bring Your Mojo" t-shirt.

Mountaineer Football Game

Cheer loud and proud for Western as we take the field! A cornerstone of Homecoming Weekend, this game brings the campus and town together.

A photo of a couple of the male cheerleaders during a performance at the Homecoming Tailgate.

Tailgate Party

Fuel up before the game! Campus and community come together for food, games, music, and good vibes before kickoff.

Gary Pierson rides his townie bike down main street while he wears a vintage marching band uniform.

Homecoming Parade

Main Street turns crimson with Mountaineer pride, packed with floats, student orgs, athletic teams, and of course, a Gary Pierson (Dean of Stoke) sighting—because what’s a parade without a Western legend?

Western's alumni rugby team faces the club team during Homecoming Weekend.

Alumni Sporting Events

From volleyball showdowns to rugby matches, past Mountaineers return to play, reconnect, and relive the glory days in spirited scrimmages.

The Cheer Team and WCU band performs with the W on fire in the background.

Lighting of the W Party

Gather at the Paul M. Rady School for a front-row view of the iconic W lighting, complete with performances by the cheer team and drumline, delicious food and drinks, and plenty of Mountaineer spirit—whether you’re mingling on the patio or watching the glow from inside the building’s panoramic windows.

NCAA athletes are lined up on a semi truck bed during the Homecoming Parade.
OUR TRADITIONS

Parade on Main Street

Locals line the sidewalks, kids scramble for candy, and the town comes alive with cheers, music, and unmistakable Mountaineer pride. It’s a small-town spectacle with big heart—featuring creative floats. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or first-time visitor, the parade is a celebration of community, tradition, and everything we love about Western. Don’t miss the chance to be part of the most spirited stroll down Main Street all year.

Registration Opens Soon

Homecoming at Western is almost here, and we can’t wait to welcome alumni, students, families, and friends back to campus. From parades to parties, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Registration opens soon—check back for details and get ready to be part of the celebration!