Homecoming Attracts Young and Older Alike

 LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 11, 2012) -- From floats to football, Homecoming is one of the most anticipated traditions at the University of Kentucky. Over the years, UK students, alumni, faculty and staff have laid the “blueprint” for this most cherished of events.

Homecoming is brought to campus by the UK Alumni Association and the Student Homecoming Coalition.

The theme for 2012 Homecoming, “The Blueprint: Building on Tradition,” pays tribute to those who have guided the way to our success as a university and looks ahead to building upon the firm foundations that have been laid. This year’s Homecoming festivities will take place Monday, Oct. 15, through Sunday, Oct. 21, and offers something for every Wildcat, young or old.

Below is an abbreviated list of 2012 Homecoming events tailored especially for alumni and their families. For a complete list, more information and to register, visit www.ukhomecoming.com.

Monday, Oct. 15

Homecoming Pep Rally

8-10 p.m., Wildcat Alumni Plaza

Help us kick off Homecoming Week at the Wildcat Alumni Plaza located off Avenue of Champions, directly across from Memorial Coliseum. In addition to other activities, there will be appearances by athletes, cheerleaders and the UK Band.

Tuesday, Oct. 16

Kitty Karnival

5 p.m., South Campus Courtyard

Kitty Karnival features small carnival games created by student organizations for children to come and enjoy on campus. Going on its 7th year, this event has become a UK and community tradition that both students and children love to attend. This event welcomes local schools, UK alumni families and UK faculty, staff and student families.

Wednesday, Oct. 17

Mr. and Mrs. Black UK Pageant

7 p.m., Memorial Hall

Dating back to the late 1980s, the Mr. and Ms. Black UK pageant is a competition that includes a talent section and choreographed dance. Student competitors wow the crowd with an array of talents every year.

Thursday, Oct. 18

Big Brew Networking Event

7-9 p.m., West Sixth Brewing Company, 501 W. Sixth Street

Join fellow UK alumni and LYPA members at one of Lexington's newest hot spots, West Sixth Brewing Company. Mingle with other alumni and professionals, sample the brews, enjoy appetizers and hear from one of the co-owners and UK alum about starting a small business and giving back to the community.

Friday, Oct. 19

‘Paving the Way’ at the Plaza

8-11 a.m., Wildcat Alumni Plaza.

The UK Alumni Association invites you to enjoy a morning with the newest campus celebrity -- the Wildcat sculpture at Wildcat Alumni Plaza -- as you take a look at the pavers in the plaza purchased by loyal alumni and friends. A professional photographer will also be available to take your photo with the regal Wildcat.

Friday, Oct. 19

seeblue. Day at Keeneland & Racing

Begins at 11 a.m., Keeneland, 4201 Versailles Rd.

Join us for festivities throughout the day at Keeneland's North Terrace. Don't miss vocal performances by UK students, the Wildcat mascot and cheerleaders, former UK football star and current Denver Bronco, Jacob Tamme and more UK fun. Wear blue to the track and stick around and catch all the racing action.

Friday, Oct. 19

Homecoming Parade Watch Party

6-9 p.m., Downtown, Cheapside Park, Fifth Third Bank Pavilion, 251 W. Main St

Join fellow alumni downtown to watch the 2012 Homecoming parade! There will be games, face painting, prizes and food available on site for purchase.

Saturday, Oct. 20

UK Alumni Association Homecoming Breakfast

8-9:30 a.m., King Alumni House, 400 Rose St.

Start the day off with delicious breakfast with UK alumni and families.

Classes Without Quizzes

Go back to class, reminisce of your days as a UK student, and learn something new along the way in two separate classes that are being offered.

Campus Bus Tour

12:30-2 p.m., Tour departs from and returns to the King Alumni House, 400 Rose St.
View the changes on UK's campus during this bus tour, with stops at the Main Building, W.T. Young Library and the UK Bookstore.

Homecoming Tailgate Tent Party

4:30 p.m., Commonwealth Stadium Red Lot near Gate 4

Enjoy tailgate food from O'Charley's along with exciting games, entertainment, face painting, giveaways, and performances by the UK Cheerleaders, mascot, and Pep Band.

Sunday, Oct. 21

Farewell Breakfast

8-10 a.m., Crowne Plaza Hotel Lexington – The Campbell House, 1375 S. Broadway

Say goodbye to new friends and former classmates during breakfast at the Crowne Plaza.