Lindenwood University will host Homecoming weekend on Friday, November 3, and Saturday, November 4, to celebrate alumni through an assortment of events and activities in St. Charles.

Homecoming weekend begins Friday with the Lindenwood University Gala at the Foundry Art Centre in St. Charles from 6-9 p.m. Tickets are available. St. Louis Cardinals legend and Major League Baseball Hall of Famer Ozzie “The Wizard” Smith, arguably one of the best shortstops of all time, is the featured speaker. Lindenwood alumnus and KMOV-TV anchor/reporter David Amelotti will be the emcee. At the Lindenwood University Gala, Lindenwood celebrates its community coming home and welcomes the new academic year.

On Saturday, the Lindenwood Homecoming parade will make its way down Main Street in historic downtown St. Charles beginning at 10 a.m. This year’s theme is “Once Upon a Time.” The parade will feature Lindenwood students representing the University’s organizations, clubs, teams, athletics, and academics. There will also be local businesses, schools, and organizations participating in the parade.

Also on Saturday, Lindenwood will host its fourth annual Homecoming All-Sports Clinic from noon-1 p.m. at Hyland Arena and Evans Commons. There will be multiple sports stations, including basketball, soccer, rugby, track and field, among others. Additionally, the Lindenwood cheerleaders and dance team will host a mini clinic of their own. The All-Sports Clinic is open to all children ages 6-13 and is limited to the first 200 registrants. All participants will receive a free T-shirt, two free tickets to the Homecoming football game, and the opportunity to be on the field prior to the game for team introductions.

Lion Pride Tailgate runs from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. in front of the Field House near Hunter Stadium. With more than 30 local vendors on hand, Lion Pride Tailgate includes live music, great food, locally beverage companies, and exciting giveaways.

Following the Lion Pride Tailgate, make the Lions football team hosts Eastern Illinois University at 2 p.m. at Hunter Stadium. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the gate. At halftime, Lindenwood’s Homecoming court will be announced.

Whether it’s the parade on Main Street, the Lindenwood University Gala, the Lion Pride Tailgate, or watching the Lions football team in action, Homecoming weekend offers plenty of activities for all to enjoy.