Purdue to celebrate homecoming Sept. 29-30

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – Purdue University is finalizing plans for Homecoming 2023 — themed “Giant Leaps Home” — with festivities scheduled for Sept. 29 and 30.

Homecoming weekend will feature reunions and activities for alumni and fans of all ages, leading up to the Sept. 30 football game against the University of Illinois.

Friday, Sept. 29

Free Ride Friday, noon to 5 p.m. (outside Stewart Center, 128 Memorial Mall Drive)

The Boilermaker Special will take passengers on complimentary rides around campus, presented by the Purdue Reamer Club.

Homecoming Parade, 8 p.m. (beginning on West Mitch Daniels Boulevard) 

This popular tradition will feature music, colorful floats and decorated golf carts.

Saturday, Sept. 30

Boilermaker Boulevard, two and half hours before kickoff (Stadium Mall, Class of 1939 Water Sculpture and Memorial Mall)

Alumni and friends can visit Boilermaker Boulevard to engage with representatives of Purdue’s colleges, schools, student organizations and more.

Thrill on the Hill, 90 minutes before kickoff (Slayter Center of Performing Arts)

This pregame musical celebration will feature the Purdue “All-American” Marching Band, presented by Purdue Bands & Orchestras. In addition, piano man Bruce Barker (BS health and human sciences ’94) will perform for an hour prior to the event and for 30 minutes following the event.

Purdue football vs. Illinois, kickoff time TBA (Ross-Ade Stadium)

Advance single-game tickets are available here.  

During the football game, the university will present the Homecoming Pillars of Excellency. These awards recognize students who exemplify education and scholarship, service and leadership, and research and innovation.  

For complete Homecoming 2023 information and event updates — including 50th-year reunion activities for the Class of 1973 — visit purdueforlife.org/homecoming.