The first ISU Homecoming was held in 1912, and although the Cyclones lost the football game 21-7, it did not deter students from continuing the celebration of Iowa State.

Today, Homecoming encompasses a whole week of events: tournaments, picnics, philanthropy projects, pep rallies and of course, football, all of which contribute to demonstration of Cyclone pride.

Adam Theis, junior in agricultural business, and Jinny Millhollin, senior in food science, are the general co-chairpersons of the Homecoming committee.

This year’s Homecoming also celebrates Iowa State’s sesquicentennial.

Theis described Homecoming 2007 as a “weeklong birthday party.”

Theis and Millhollin have been pleased with this year’s Homecoming week.

“Despite the weather, it’s gone very well,” Millhollin said.

Yell Like Hell and Pep Rally

Friday night starts off with the Yell Like Hell final cuts and the pep rally at 6:30 p.m. on Central Campus. Greek chapters and students from across campus form teams and create skits to display their Cyclone pride. The teams must adhere to a set of rules outlined by the Student Alumni Leadership Council. Skits can be no longer than five minutes and the content of the skit must be based on this year’s Homecoming theme, “Building on Tradition.” Teams must also incorporate the ISU fight song into their skit.

The ISU Cyclone Football “Varsity” Marching Band, the ISU Spirit Squad, and Cy himself will also be at the rally to fire up the crowd. Several of the sports teams, including the football team and Cyclone Hockey, will also make an appearance. The candidates for the Cardinal Court will also be announced. Candidates must have at least a 3.0 cumulative grade point average and display character, academic achievement and commitment to the university and community.

“It’s the first time we’ve had a king and queen in many years,” Theis said.

The king and queen will be announced at halftime during the football game and will each receive a $500 scholarship.

Mass Campaniling

Friday night culminates with one of Iowa State’s long standing traditions – mass Campaniling and fireworks.

Interestingly, during the 1977 Homecoming, there was a midnight Campaniling contest, which was a parody of the ISU tradition. Participants were challenged to hold their kisses through the 12 strokes of the Campanile at midnight.

Everyone is invited to grab a partner and pucker up as the Campanile strikes midnight and enjoy a fireworks show.

Homecoming tailgate

Before the football game, Cyclone fans can celebrate together at the Homecoming tailgate, sponsored by the ISU Alumni Association.

Their tent is located south of Jack Trice Stadium at the southeast corner of 16th Street and University Boulevard.

For $10, visitors can enjoy barbecue and birthday cake in celebration of Iowa State’s 150th birthday. They also have a chance to pick up some Cy giveaways.

The tailgate will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. and after the tailgate, fans can “pack the Jack” and cheer on the Cyclones as they take on the Oklahoma Sooners.

Kickoff is at 11:30 a.m.

Lawn displays and ExCYtement in the Streets

Homecoming changes the landscape of the greek community. The usually green lawns of the greek houses become showcases for the artistic and creative talents of sorority and fraternity members.

Since September, the greek community has worked together to put together lawn displays and tonight, they will showcase their displays during ExCYtement in the Streets. The event is open to the public, with university and community representatives judging the displays. In addition to the lawn displays, entertainment will be provided by various student organizations.