“Polar Bear State of Mind” will be the theme for Ohio Northern University Homecoming events Oct. 21-23. The annual occasion offers an opportunity for former students to return to campus and connect with their alma mater. A series of events is planned to capture the spirit of ONU.

The full slate of activities is available online at www.onu.edu/event/homecoming

Highlights will include the Homecoming parade in downtown Ada beginning at 10:30 a.m. Oct. 22, followed by a tailgate lunch in the King Horn Field House at 11:30 a.m., the activities tent outside of King Horn at 11:30 a.m., and the Homecoming football game vs. Muskingum University at 1:30 p.m. in Dial-Roberson Stadium.

The William L. Robinson Young Alumni Award recipients will be introduced prior to the game at 1 p.m., and the Homecoming king and queen will be announced at halftime.

Also on Oct. 22, all reunion class members and their guests are invited to celebrate together at the reunion reception at The Inn at Ohio Northern University from 4 to 7 p.m. The day will conclude with a performance by “The Movin’ Out Band” at 8 p.m. in the Freed Center for the Performing Arts. The band features the hits of classic rock pianist Billy Joel as well as songs from fellow piano master Elton John.

Homecoming weekend begins with a series of college-related events on Oct. 21, beginning with the Pettit College of Law Alumni Luncheon at 11:30 a.m. The weekend concludes with the ONU Sweetheart Vow Renewal and Brunch at 9 a.m. on Oct. 23 in the English Chapel, followed by brunch in McIntosh Center, and the Zeta Tau Alpha Rosie Bowl powder-puff football game at noon in Dial-Roberson Stadium.

A special feature of this year’s Homecoming celebration is a revamped “Spirit Week,” a series of events to further engage current ONU students, faculty and staff members in Homecoming activities.

“The college days are a transformative experience, and we have designed Homecoming activities to reflect what the ONU experience is all about,” said Annmarie Baumgartner, director of alumni relations. “We welcome alumni and their families to visit campus, participate in the many events that are planned, and remember what ONU means to them.”