Birthday Party of the Century: Centennial Homecoming Events

From: Public Affairs

James Madison University alumni, students and friends are celebrating JMU's 100th anniversary with Homecoming 2007. Events planned through Saturday, October 27 are:


Friday, October 26:


  • 3 p.m.: Debut of "Portraits in Bluestone" by JMU alumnus Brian Balmages. The commissioned three-movement work, to be performed at Wilson Hall Auditorium, celebrates JMU's 100th anniversary and features the JMU Wind Symphony, Chorale and Orchestra. Free and open to the public.


  • 4 p.m.: Performing Arts Center Groundbreaking. JMU President Linwood Rose and Dr. Marilou M. Johnson, interim dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts, will speak and join major contributors to the Performing Arts Center in a groundbreaking ceremony AT WILSON HALL. THIS IS A CHANGE IN LOCATIN DUE TO THE WEATHER. Free and open to the public.


  • 5 p.m.: Homecoming Parade. Horse-drawn carriages, the Marching Royal Dukes, athletic teams, JMU President Dr. Linwood Rose and floats will march on Duke and Bluestone drives.


  • 6 to 8 p.m.: Pep Rally and New Alumni Lawn Party AT THE FESTIVAL CONFERENCE AND STUDENT CENTER. THIS IS A CHANGE IN LOCATION DUE TO THE WEATHER. Head football coach Mickey Matthews, JMU student groups and Duke Dog will make appearances. The event includes picnic food and is free.



Saturday, October 27


  • 10 a.m. to noon: Alumni Tailgate/Field Festival. Come out wearing your purple and check out the alumni tailgate tent with food and drinks. Also set up around the field festival area to tailgate, receive JMU spirit items and get pumped for the game with the Richmond Spiders.


  • Noon: Homecoming football game against University of Richmond Spiders.


  • 3 p.m.: Post Game Field Festival on Godwin field. A live band and other activities; free and open to the public.


  • 6 to 8 p.m.: The Fresh Food Company at Gibbons Hall (better known as D-hall) will feature lots of purple and gold, so continue the celebration with the 5th best food in the country (according to the 2007 Princeton Review).