Northern Michigan University’s 2016 Homecoming celebration will include events for alumni and community members. This year’s theme is “Let the Games Begin.” All events are free unless otherwise indicated.

The Homecoming parade begins at 5:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 23, on Third Street between Fair Avenue and Hewitt Street. It will include athletic teams, the marching band, cheerleaders and decorated floats and cars. The NMU Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony follows at 7 p.m. in the University Center. Tickets are required and cost $30 for adults and $15 for children 10 and under. This year's inductees are David Bradshaw, Jim Grahek, Cory Hartberger, Morgan Smyth, Jeremy Wilkinson and the 1967 football team. The All-Alumni Reception with complimentary hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar will be held from 8-10 p.m. at the Landmark Inn.

Saturday’s events start with a Bagels and Books family program at Lydia Olson Library from 9-11 a.m., followed by a Learning Resources Center community open house until 5 p.m. A Community Tailgate preceding the football game will be held from 1-3:30 p.m. at the Superior Dome. It features the marching band, bouncy houses, student performances, lawn games and activities for fans of all ages. Food and beer will be available for purchase. The NMU Wildcat football team will play Northwood College at 4. Tickets are available at any NMU EZ Ticket outlet or http://www.nmu.edu/tickets. A Fifth Quarter Celebration will take place at the Holiday Inn after the game, with food and a cash bar. 

The following reunions are also planned: 50th anniversary for classes 1965-67; all-football reunion recognizing the 1967 and 1981 teams; all-team reunions for women's basketball and swimming/diving; and a cheerleading alumni reunion. 

For more information or to register, go to http://www.nmu.edu/alumni/homecoming.