Potato-sack races, watermelon eating contests, wiener-dog races, line dancing, face painting – No, this is not a carnival; these are just some of the attractions of CSULB’s Homecoming Tailgate.
With the intent of re-conjuring the look, feel and spirit of the earlier school celebrations of the 1960s and 1970s, the theme of this year’s Homecoming is 49er Days: The Dawn of Tradition.
During the early years of Long Beach State, students would eagerly await the annual 49er Day event on campus. This event took on an old-time Western feel reminiscent of 1849, with fair games and activities such as grease pole climbing contests.
Unfortunately, the tradition and spirit of 49er Days was lost, that is, until now. For the second year in a row, with the enthusiasm of new students and modern technology, it is hoped that Homecoming’s 49er Days will bring back old campus traditions back better than ever.
A homecoming court introduction ceremony will be held at noon on Monday, Feb. 19 at the Nugget. Any student who is currently enrolled and has a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA is eligible to run for homecoming king or queen. The royal duo will have the opportunity to represent the university at upcoming events throughout the year. Each will also receive a $250 scholarship.
“I’ve really enjoyed being a part of Homecoming and encourage everyone to get excited about 49er Days. Homecoming is a good way to show school spirit,” said current Homecoming Queen Amanda Stone.
Applications are available at the Beach Pride Center or can be downloaded online at beachpride.com by clicking on the Homecoming link. All applications are due Feb. 12 by 5 p.m. in the Beach Pride Center.
The Homecoming Court will also be announced during a pep rally held in The Walter Pyramid Feb. 22. Performances from CSULB’s dance team, cheer team and step team are three of the many performances planned for the evening.
On the day of the game, Saturday February 24, the area surrounding the Pyramid will be transformed into a large 1949 inspired Homecoming Tailgate between noon and 3:30 p.m. A multitude of fair-like games, concession stands and competitions such as a watermelon eating contest and potato-sack races, are some of the highlights during the event. For the more daring student, a mechanical riding bull will be present.
During the Homecoming Tailgate, students will be able to vote for Homecoming King and Queen. In past years, Homecoming Court was decided by a court committee. With a slightly different voting process, this year students will have the opportunity to vote for candidates directly. Students with a valid student ID can vote at designated polling stations.
Also during the tailgate, students will be given the opportunity to creatively show 49er spirit by reserving and decorating tailgating spots. Each site space will participate in a decorating contest which will be judged on the criteria of best accommodation of the 49er Days theme, Beach Pride, complexity and originality.
Last year, a group drove in classic automobiles and even brought in farm animals to win the judges votes. Winners will be recognized and announced during the Homecoming program, and receive prizes.
A limited number of tailgate spots are available and reservations must be made by Feb. 21 at the Student Life & Development Office.
For more information regarding Homecoming events, visit beachpride.com or call the Beach Pride Center at (562) 985-2535.