Join the Fun at William Paterson University Homecoming and Family Day on Saturday, November 9

The day’s festivities include a ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony for the new WP Spirit Rock, pre-game tailgating, a carnival, and football against The College of New Jersey

William Paterson University welcomes alumni, students, their parents and families, faculty, staff, and the community to campus for Homecoming and Family Day 2024 with on Saturday, November 9, 2024. The day will feature a variety of fun activities, including pre-game tailgating, a family carnival, football, and a ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony for the new WP Spirit Rock.

“We are excited to invite the entire William Paterson University community—alumni, students, families, and friends—to celebrate Homecoming and Family Day,” says Francisco Diaz, associate vice president for student development.  “We look forward to enjoying this special day filled with WP spirit and Pioneer Pride!”

The day kicks off with pre-game tailgating in Parking Lot 2 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on campus. Alumni and friends are welcome to bring food, drinks, and grills for a traditional tailgate experience. An ID is required. For additional information, view the tailgating guidelines and the campus map.

A Pioneer Carnival will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on the Practice Field. Everyone is invited for complimentary food, games, prizes, giveaways, and activities for all ages. The day will include student performances, music, bingo and more!

Also, a ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Speert Green lawn between Grant Hall and University Hall for the new WP Spirit Rock. The large orange WP monument, located in front of Grant Hall, places one of the University’s iconic logos at the heart of the main campus, and has quickly become a popular gathering spot. The project was funded in part by a generous gift provided specifically for campus beautification from the estate of the late Edward Skurna '61, a member of the William Paterson Heritage Society. Registration is requested. After the event, attendees can head to the President's Tailgate Tent in Lot 2!

All events lead to the big Homecoming game, when the Pioneer Football Team squares off against The College of New Jersey at 1 p.m. in Pioneer Football Stadium. Attendees are asked to “Orange Out the Stands” by wearing as much orange as possible! Admission is free for all.

Parking on Homecoming and Family Day is complimentary and available in the Pioneer Parking Garage or in Parking Lot 6, adjacent to the Sports and Recreation Center. 

Registration for Homecoming and Family Day is highly encouraged. For additional information about Homecoming events, visit the website at wpunj.edu/homecoming.

  10/28/24