Homecoming is approaching and we Flashes know, it’s not just about the football game! As you prep your blue and gold outfit don’t forget to check these things off your 2018 Kent State Homecoming Bucket List!

1. Start off the morning with the annual Bowman Cup 5k Race

The race will begin at 8 a.m. with participants starting and ending at the Student Recreation and Wellness Center. The race runs through Kent residential areas and the Portage Hike and Bike Trail finishing off with an awards ceremony immediately after the race. Along with a free T-shirt for the first 500 participants, a free buffet will be offered at the Rec Center along with raffle prizes from local vendors.

2. After the race, run over to the Kent Homecoming Parade

The parade will start at 10 a.m. at the corner of Midway and end on Main Street around 11:30 a.m. Students organizations and other entries will entertain you with music and will be passing out promotional items or candy!

3. Kiss on the K

Share the love with your KSU sweetheart! Each year, couples young and old who met during their time at Kent State gather at Risman Plaza at noon to kiss their significant other.

4. Just in time for lunch at Ray’s Place

After the homecoming parade, head over to Ray’s Place for lunch! Ray’s Place has been a staple of Kent State students’ social life for well over 75 years. Offering great food along with their classic Long Islands, students, alumni and the Kent community always enjoy the great atmosphere that Ray’s Place has to offer –  especially during Homecoming!

5. Time for the Tailgate

Head over to Dix Stadium and get ready to tailgate! Whether you’re joining the Black Alumni Chapter tailgate, Flash Nation tailgate or having your own, make sure to sub out your red solo cups for blue and have a great time!

6. Kent State Homecoming Football Game

Gear up with the players in your blue and gold spirit wear to support the flashes as they kick off at 3:30 p.m. against Ohio University! Make sure to stick around during halftime to find out who is crowned homecoming king and queen. The nominees are as follows: Jordan Euell, Katherine Greskovich, Emanuel Jackson, Morgan Marshall, Suzanne Mead, Pooyan Mirjalili, Dan Passonno, Maxwell Rees, Madeline Scalzi, Albert Smith, Jennifer Uren, Alexandra Watson.

7. Young Alumni After Party

Alumni ages 34 and under are invited to stop by Hometown Bank Plaza to celebrate 100 years of homecoming! This event will feature a DJ, caricature artists and a photo booth along with free food and gifts.

Visit Ray’s Place Website.