Fairmont State University focuses on community for Homecoming 2024—Falcon Fest

Fairmont State will celebrate Homecoming 2024 from Tuesday, Oct. 1, through Sunday, Oct. 6. This year’s theme, Falcon Fest, will blend beloved traditions with exciting new events designed to bring all parts of Falcon Nation together—alumni, students, employees, and residents of North-Central West Virginia.  

“Homecoming is one of my favorite times of the year,” said President Mike Davis, “when alumni, students, and the community come together to celebrate Fairmont State. I look forward to spending time with the Falcons who have made the University what it is today, and to talk with them about what the University can become. Homecoming is magical and I cannot wait to share that with the entire Falcon Nation.” 

The annual Homecoming Parade is scheduled for Oct. 3 at 6 p.m. and will be led by marshals Bill and Lois Muto Laughlin. The parade will begin at the intersection of Fourth Street and Virginia Avenue, proceed onto Fairmont Avenue, continue as it becomes Adams Street, and concludes at Veterans Square in downtown Fairmont. Those interested in joining the parade can register online at www.fairmontstate.edu/homecoming.  

A bonfire pep-rally will follow the parade at the gravel lot next to the tennis courts on Fairmont State’s campus. The event will feature food trucks, Homecoming apparel, and a spirited pep-rally. The bonfire pep-rally is free and open to all. For those wishing to stay downtown, the Alumni Association will be sponsoring an Alumni Social Hour at The Joe immediately following the parade. 

New events this year include “Wine Down Wednesday” on Oct. 2 at 5 p.m. at MonValley Vineyards, benefiting Freddie’s Pantry, the university’s on-campus food bank; and a celebration on Oct. 5 for Michael Belmear, former assistant vice president of student affairs for more than three decades. 

Friday, Oct. 4 will feature the Alumni Awards Luncheon at noon in Falcon Center Gym 1, the Athletics Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at 5 p.m. in Falcon Center Gym 1, and the Student Dance at 9 p.m. in Colebank Hall.  

Tickets for applicable activities are available for purchase online and some events suggest advance RSVPs. For the full homecoming schedule and to make your reservations visit www.fairmontstate.edu/homecoming. 

The Homecoming football game will kick off at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 5 at Duvall-Rosier field, preceded by the Alumni Tailgate at 11 a.m. in the White Lot. Tickets for the game can be purchased online, and all K-12 students receive free admission to all Fairmont State home football games this season. The Falcons will be taking on West Virginia State.  

“Fairmont State Homecoming is a highlight of each year,” said Amy Snively, director of alumni relations. “In addition to students, faculty, staff, and alumni, I see many community members attend. This year is exciting because there are even more opportunities for the Falcon community to participate. Fairmont State Homecoming is truly a community event.”