Editors: This release focuses on alumni/community Homecoming events. The full schedule of student events, beginning with the annual Dead River Games from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, can be found at www.nmu.edu/homecoming.

MARQUETTE, Mich. — Northern Michigan University’s 2014 Homecoming celebration will include activities for alumni and community members. The theme of this year’s event is “The Show Must Go On.”

            The public events kick off on Thursday, Sept. 25, with the unveiling and dedication of the newly constructed John X. Jamrich Hall. A 7 p.m. program in the first-floor auditorium will include remarks from President Emeritus Jamrich, NMU President Fritz Erickson, ASNMU student government president Katerina Klawes and NMU Board of Trustees chair Rick Popp. The Haynes Carillon will play the NMU Alma Mater before attendees proceed to the hallway for the building plaque unveiling and ribbon cutting. Desserts and beverages will be served in the lobby and facility tours will be offered from 8-9 p.m. This event is free and open to the public.

            The annual Homecoming parade begins at 5:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26. The NMU Marching Band, athletic teams and decorated floats and cars will travel down Marquette’s Third Street. An All-Alumni Reception will follow the parade at 6:30 p.m. in the Harbor Room at the Landmark Inn. Complimentary appetizers and a cash bar will be available.

            Saturday’s events include a new Homecoming Community Tailgate at 4 p.m. outside the Superior Dome. There will be lawn games, inflatable play areas, a dunk tank, student performances and music at this free event, with the option to purchase a BBQ buffet and local craft beers. Special packages that include a game ticket, food and a “Beat Tech” shirt are available through the NMU Ticket Office at 906-227-1032. The celebration concludes with the Homecoming football game, with the Wildcats facing the Michigan Tech Huskies at 7 p.m.

            For more information, visit www.nmu.edu/alumni.