It’s time for alumni and friends to embark on a journey of nostalgia and celebration as Missouri State University hosts this year’s Homecoming Oct. 20-22. 

“This is a wonderful opportunity for alumni to return to campus to celebrate and see how Missouri State has evolved,” Greg Fansler, MSU executive director of engagement and alumni relations, said. 

“The Alumni Association has planned several traditional events like our 50th Reunion and Golden Bears. We also helped to promote special events for Greek organizations, Black and Latino alumni networks, and wrestling alumni. In addition, we’re excited to launch a new Homecoming tradition for young alumni called the BeAR Crawl after the football game.”     

Mark your calendar

Plenty of events and activities are scheduled over the three days. Highlights include: 

Oct. 20 

Class of 1973 50th Reunion, 10:30 a.m., Kentwood Hall Crystal Ballroom
Graduates of the Class of 1973 can kick off Homecoming weekend with a luncheon and campus tour before an induction to the Golden Bears Oct. 21. Tickets are $35 per person. 

Oct. 21 

Band of Bears Homecoming Parade, 9 a.m., John Q. Hammons ParkwayfanslerGreg 
Everyone is invited to kick off Homecoming by watching bands, floats and parade entries travel through campus. 

Breakfast with Boomer, 10 a.m., Foster Recreation Center
Bring the kids to meet Boomer and enjoy a kid-friendly breakfast, inflatables and other activities. Also, get a free family photo with Boomer! This event costs $10 for children and $15 for adults (register in advance). 

Bears, Lady Bears Basketball Homecoming Sneak Preview, 10 a.m., Great Southern Bank Arena
Fans can get a first glimpse of the 2023-24 Bears and Lady Bears basketball teams.

Golden Bears Reunion, 10:30 a.m., Plaster Student Reunion Ballroom
This exclusive Homecoming celebration honors Bears who graduated from or last attended Missouri State 50 or more years ago. 

BearFest Village: Alumni Tailgate, 11 a.m., north of Plaster Stadium 
Relive the college days at the ultimate tailgate event. Reconnect with fellow Bears, share legendary stories and soak in Bear pride over food, drinks and games. 

Bears Football vs. Murray State, 2 p.m., Plaster Stadium
Cheer on the Bears as they take on Murray State. Tickets range from $16-$31 each. 

BeAR Crawl, 7 p.m., Springfield Brew Co.
Don’t miss the first-ever BeAR Crawl, a new Homecoming tradition! It costs $10.

Alumni Chapter Mixer, 7 p.m., Springfield Brew Co. 
Engage with alumni chapters and constituency groups. The event is $10. 

Oct. 22 

Alabama Concert, 7 p.m., Great Southern Bank Arena
End your Homecoming weekend with Alabama in concert. Special pricing available for MSU alumni.

Learn about the Homecoming celebration