Just a few weeks into fall semester, and Weber State University is hosting Homecoming 2017: A Wildcat Tradition beginning Sept. 16 and culminating Sept. 23 with tailgating and the Homecoming football game against UC Davis.

“Student leaders are excited for the quick turnaround,” said Tara Peris-Caputo, WSU’s Student Involvement and Leadership director. “This allows students to keep a high level of enthusiasm between beginning of school activities and Homecoming events.”

Activities begin Sept. 16 at 7 p.m. when WSU Davis (2750 N. University Park Blvd., Layton) hosts its annual movie night. This year’s feature film is “Despicable Me 3.” The free showing will be held on the west lawn of the Layton campus.

The annual Homecoming Week Pep Rally, featuring WSU athletes, coaches, Waldo and the nationally award-winning Spirit Squad, will be held Sept. 18 at 12:30 p.m. at the Stewart Bell Tower Plaza. Other activities, such as the Homecoming dance and the Dive-in movie help connect the campus and the community.

“Homecoming week is the time when school spirit and pride in Weber State is strongest,” said Michelle Thao, WSU Student Association vice president of activities. “The passion and pride for Weber State that each individual has around Homecoming week really boosts our motivation in making great events. To me, that is what makes Homecoming week special for alumni and students.”

The football team has received national notice this season, starting the season ranked 22nd in the FCS Coaches poll. The Wildcats improved to 20th after crushing Western Montana 76-0.

They will face conference opponent Sacramento State in a non-conference match up Sept. 16. The Wildcats will then take on the UC Davis Aggies in the Homecoming game Sept. 23 at 5 p.m. Due to the game’s early start, the annual pre-game tailgate will begin at 3 p.m. and run to 4:45 p.m.

“We have seen traditions continue and grow here at WSU through the continued attendance at events such as the Homecoming dance, tailgate, and other activities.” Peris-Caputo said. “It is even more exciting to see the number of alumni who continue to participate and bring their friends and families to enjoy the experience too. Homecoming Week is the one time of year that we, as a community of Wildcats — past, present, and future — come together, numerous times, to celebrate Weber State.”

Homecoming Event Schedule

Friday, Sept. 15

WSU Davis annual movie night, “Despicable Me 3,” 7 p.m., west lawn, WSU Davis.

Saturday, Sept. 16

Untamed West Fest: music, food, drink, culture at the Ogden Amphitheater, featuring Grammy Award-winning pop artist Michelle Branch. The event also will include an array of food trucks such as Lucky Slice Pizza, Rickles, Comfort Bowl, Marquesas Corn Dogs, Silver Moon Taqueria, Heidi Cakes, Thieps Eats and more.

Gates open at 5 p.m., tickets start at $20 Buy tickets here.

Monday, Sept. 18

Homecoming week pep rally, 12:30 p.m., Stewart Bell Tower Plaza.

Tuesday, Sept. 19

Casino Night hosted by WSUSA Clubs and Organizations, 7-9 p.m., Shepherd Union Ballroom A.

Wednesday, Sept. 20

WSU Service Day of Remembrance, participants will meet at 7:30 a.m. in Shepherd Union Room 232 for volunteer opportunities throughout the community all day.

“Chalk The Walk” Stewart Bell Tower Plaza, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Dive-in movie night, “Jaws” 7:30-10 p.m., Swenson Pool, free with a valid Wildcard or $6 without.

Thursday, Sept. 21

Allen Holmes Diversity Symposium: A sexual-assault survivor story, free to all, Wildcat Theater: 12:30-1:45 p.m. and Shepherd Union Ballrooms: 6:30-8 p.m.

48th Annual WSU Salutes, 7 p.m., Lindquist Alumni Center, outstanding WSU alumni will be honored for their personal and professional accomplishments.

Friday, Sept. 22

Homecoming Dance, Mardi Gras, 8-11:30 p.m., Stewart Bell Tower Plaza $15 per couple/$10 individual. 

Saturday, Sept. 23

Homecoming Wildcat Fan Fest, 3-4:45 p.m., Stewart Stadium north parking lot.

Homecoming football game, WSU vs. UC Davis, 5 p.m., Stewart Stadium.

For a complete schedule of events, visit weber.edu/homecoming.