We’re less than a month away from the 99th Homecoming (Oct. 17 – 19), so it’s time to dust off those Queen’s jackets and finalize your plans.
With more than 100 official events on the books – from class dinners and pub nights to open houses, lab tours, and big games – it won’t be easy choosing what to do.
The Homecoming Events, Plan Your Visit, and Reunions pages are good places to start, but if you want a shortcut, keep reading. Think of this as your weekend starter pack: seven can’t-miss things to do for all those tricolour feels.
1. Check in, cheer on
- What: Welcome and Check-in
- When: Oct. 17, 1 – 6 pm; Oct. 18, 8:30 am – 12:30 pm
- Where: Grant Hall
The best place to kick off Homecoming is at the heart of campus, Grant Hall, where you can check in, grab your commemorative name-tag button, pick up reunion pins, and learn about everything happening. While you’re there, chat with volunteers, visit the exhibitor tables, pick up your football tickets, and reconnect with old classmates as they arrive. Whether you’re fresh off the road or strolling across campus, this is where the celebrations truly begin.
2. Explore the final frontier
- What: Decoding the Cosmos
- When: Oct. 17, 10 am – 12 pm
- Where: Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts
Celebrate a major investment in the Arthur B. McDonald Canadian Astroparticle Physics Research Institute and the 10th anniversary of Dr. McDonald co-winning the Nobel Prize in Physics. This special program and reception will showcase Queen’s and Canada’s leadership in astroparticle physics, mark a remarkable scientific legacy at SNOLAB, and look ahead to what’s next in scientific discovery at Queen’s.
3. Toast the new JDUC
- What: John Deutsch University Centre Opening Celebration
- When: Oct. 17, 4:30 – 6:30 pm
- Where: John Deutsch University Centre
It’s been 10 years in the making, but it’s finally time to raise a glass to the new hub of student life at Queen’s. Join the AMS, rector, and alumni for the ribbon-cutting of the beautifully revitalized JDUC at 5:30 pm, then take a tour of all the new spaces. Cap off the celebrations with a celebratory refreshment at the Queen’s Pub – now with a patio!
4. Pet a goat
- What: Fall Harvest Alumni Gathering
- When: Oct. 18, 11 am – 2 pm
- Where: Agnes Benidickson Field
The always popular and always free Fall Harvest is back this year – but this time with a mini petting zoo (literally). You’ll get to meet two Nigerian-Dwarf goats, two American Miniature pigs, and four Netherland Dwarf bunnies. Not the animal type? There will be lots of other stuff here too, including food and drinks, a vendor market with local artisans, live music, and lawn games. Plus, with facepainting, a balloon artist, and space to roam, this is a great spot for the kids.
5. March with the bands
- What: Alumni Parade to Richardson Stadium
- When: Oct. 18, 11 am – 12:15 pm
- Where: Grant Hall
Step into a cherished Queen’s tradition and march with Queen’s Bands from Grant Hall to Richardson Stadium ahead of the football game. Whether you’ve got two left feet or can actually keep a beat, this parade is all about fun and soaking up school spirit. Get to Grant Hall at 10:50 am for a special short performance, then lace up those comfy shoes for an 11 am sharp parade start. If you need a lift during the procession, a bus will be available.
6. Catch Hazlett’s coin toss
- What: Homecoming Football Game
- When: Oct. 18, 1 – 4 pm
- Where: Richardson Stadium
Don’t miss a true Queen’s legend in action! Lois Hazlett, a Queen’s football season ticket holder for 69 years, will toss the coin before the Gaels take on the Windsor Lancers. The football game is always a cornerstone of Homecoming weekend, but this year will be extra special with Lois at midfield to get things going. Read more about her in a recent Queen’s Alumni Review feature.
7. Salute the guard
- What: Tricolour Guard Celebrations
- When: All weekend
- Where: Everywhere
The Tricolour Guard are Queen’s alumni who graduated 50 or more years ago. This Homecoming, they’ll be honoured at the annual Tricolour Guard Reception and Dinner at Ban Righ Hall (Oct. 18), but you can also cheer them on as they parade the field at halftime during the football game (Oct. 18). But remember: your salute doesn’t have to end there. All weekend long, celebrate these alumni who embody the history, pride, and tradition at Queen’s.
Learn more: Tricolour Guard Reception and Dinner / Tricolour Guard Halftime Parade
Head to the Homecoming Events, Plan Your Visit, and Reunions pages for everything happening during Homecoming.
