Tucson, Ariz. -- The nearly century old tradition, dating back to the 1920s, kicked off homecoming weekend.
We are, of course, talking about the bonfire in front of Old Main.
A sea of red and blue filled Main Gate Square at the University of Arizona as hundreds gathered to watch this homecoming tradition.
Lynn Engel is a proud UArizona alum. She told KGUN9 she hasn't missed a homecoming since graduating in 1976
“They light that bonfire and it’s like...I mean it’s like the swell of a crowd that is so exciting that means, okay, homecoming’s here, let’s go. Beat those Beavers tomorrow!” Engel exclaimed.
As tradition has it, with the lighting of the bonfire come all the homecoming events. Melinda Burke, the President of the UArizona Alumni Association says, this will be a weekend to celebrate what it means to be a Wildcat.
“We are going to have a parade, we’re going to have numerous tailgate parties. There’s going to be an amazing football game and a big win we hope after we beat Oregon State,” Burke said.
Homecoming is a time where students and alums come together, make memories, and celebrate being a Wildcat.
The bonfire began at 7:30pm. Hundreds gathered to take pictures to commemorate the iconic event.
The homecoming parade will start at 9:30am on Saturday, November 2nd. It will take place at the UArizona Mall. If you would like a spot, it is encouraged you get there early.
The tailgate will start at 8:30am.
