Duck spirit cranks up as an in-person homecoming nears

After limited festivities in 2020, homecoming 2021 will bring together Ducks, both old and new, for a week of family, student and alumni events at the University of Oregon.

“This is such an exciting time of year, and it is especially meaningful as we are all back together again on campus,” said Kevin Marbury, vice president for student life. “Our students are looking forward to the celebrations.” 

The campus will fill throughout this week with alumni, parents and friends while the excitement builds. Thursday and Friday will feature events for alumni and Duck families around campus including a welcome reception and a variety activities jam packed for Fall Family Weekend.

Friday afternoon will center around Run with the Duck, where students, faculty members, staff, alumni and community members run a 5K race alongside the UO’s famous mascot. Preregistration is free for all and $15 the day of the event. Run with the Duck starts at Riverfront Field at 3 p.m. Additionally, a 1K kids fun run across the Autzen Footbridge will be held at 2:30 p.m. that afternoon for little Ducklings to join in on the homecoming fun. 

Friday night will bring the homecoming pep rally, where Duck fans can come together to cheer on the football team ahead of their Saturday game against Colorado. The Oregon Marching Band is scheduled to perform throughout the night.

“I am delighted that coach (Mario) Cristobal will be joining us along with our incredible Oregon Marching Band,” Marbury said. “This event will bring tremendous energy to our campus and remind us of what a great community we have here at the UO.”

Saturday will bring homecoming to a head with the momentous matchup between the University of Colorado Buffaloes and the UO Ducks..

Sunday concludes homecoming week with the volleyball team facing off against Colorado and the women’s soccer team taking on Washington.

The full schedule can be found on the homecoming website.