SMSU Homecoming Parade to Move to Campus

Published Tuesday, August 26, 2025

SMSU Alumni Float

Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) is proud to announce a historic update to its annual Homecoming Parade; for the first time ever, the parade will take place on campus. Due to ongoing construction in downtown Marshall, the celebration is coming home—right to the heart of Mustang Territory. The parade will be held on Saturday, October 11 at noon on the campus of SMSU.

This exciting change transforms SMSU’s campus into the central stage for Homecoming festivities, offering a vibrant and welcoming space for students, alumni, and community members to unite in a powerful display of Mustang pride. The new route not only enhances the spirit of the event but also provides a unique opportunity to showcase the beauty and energy of SMSU’s campus. Free general parking on campus will be available all day sponsored by the SMSU Alumni Association and SMSU Foundation. Detailed parking information will be shared closer to the event on the SMSU homecoming website.

Homecoming 2025 will also feature a strong local presence, with businesses like The Hitching Post joining the celebration. Guests can enjoy food and beverages throughout the day, especially during the highly anticipated Game Day Roundup tailgate event. Local businesses interested in participating in the Game Day Roundup are encouraged to contact the SMSU Alumni Office for more details—it's a fantastic opportunity to connect with the Mustang community and be part of an unforgettable day.

"We're bringing the Homecoming Parade to the place where Mustang pride runs deepest—our campus," said Hannah Abel, Director of Alumni Relations and Outreach. "This move strengthens our traditions and creates unforgettable experiences for everyone involved. We invite students, alumni, and the Marshall community to come out, celebrate, and be part of a historic event."

Also new this year is the opportunity to hear directly from Mustang Athletics coaches and staff during the Saturday Morning Mustang radio show, which will be broadcast live from Extra Innings & Varsity Pub at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 11. Kick off your day with insider updates on the weekend’s matchups and get ready to cheer on the Mustangs.

Join us in Mustang Territory as we honor SMSU’s legacy, celebrate cherished traditions, and create lasting memories. The parade line-up will begin at 11:00am near the track and field complex. The parade will begin at noon, moving through the campus perimeter, down State Street, Wefald Drive, and Birch Street to Mustang Trail and on to the Regional Event Center for the day's festivities.

To view the full schedule of SMSU Homecoming events, visit https://www.smsualumni.com/homecoming. For more information or to get involved, contact the SMSU Alumni Office at (507) 537-6266 or alumni@smsu.edu.