Washburn University will Celebrate Homecoming Oct. 26-31; Community is Invited

Topeka, Kan. -Washburn University will celebrate Homecoming Oct. 26-31 with a program of Washburn traditions for students, alumni, faculty, staff and the community. The Washburn Homecoming events showcase the Ichabod spirit and this year's theme is "Every Era, Every Ichabod."

"Homecoming is such a special part of the Washburn experience, and an exciting time that brings the Washburn and Topeka communities together," said Tatum Crow, nursing student, Washurn cheer and Washburn Homecoming Lead 2026. "It's rewarding to help coordinate the Homecoming committee this year, particularly ensuring Yell Like Hell returned to Lee Arena after the renovations."

Washburn students, faculty and staff will participate in Spirit Week with theme days during the week, traditional Top Hats will be on display in the Memorial Union, students can vote for Ichabods of Honor and everyone can donate to Can Emporia.

Can Emporia is an annual food drive competition between Washburn University and Emporia State University leading up to the Turnpike Tussle football game, Nov. 7. It's not just about school pride, it's about supporting students and communities. All donations go to local food pantries, including Washburn University's Bods Feeding Bods.

Learn all the details about Washburn Homecoming by visiting washburn.edu/homecoming.

Schedule of Homecoming Events

Tuesday, Oct. 27

Bod Bash

- 6 p.m.
- East Union Lawn

Washburn students will be under the stars for an unforgettable night of food, drinks and dancing! Nominees for the Ichabods of Honor will be announced throughout the event.

Wednesday, Oct. 28

Scorch on the Porch

- 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
- Washburn Rooms A and B, Memorial Union

Students, faculty and staff can grab some food and enjoy activities. They can stay for the duration of the event or grab a quick bite to eat before their next stop.

Trick or Treat off the Street

- 5:30 - 7 p.m.
- Start on the North Memorial Union Lawn

Topeka and surrounding communities are invited to join the Washburn community for this annual Halloween fun on campus! Washburn University student organizations and departments table, decorate, wear costumes and pass out candy to participants. This event gives children and families a safe, fun place to trick-or-treat while connecting with Washburn. Grab your costume and join us for an evening of treats, campus spirit, and family-friendly fun! This event is part of Can Emporia and is a collection site.

Thursday, Oct. 29

Yell Like Hell

- 7 p.m.
- Lee Arena

There will be yelling, dancing and music. Come watch all of student organizations and athletic teams battle it out to show who can really Yell Like Hell!

Friday, Oct. 30

Washburn Theatre's Fall Musical: "Little Shop of Horrors"

- 7 p.m.
- Neese-Gray Theatre, Garvey Fine Arts Building

In this tale of a meek shopkeeper, Seymor seeks fame, fortune and love. He finds it all with a little help from an amazing and mysterious plant, but at what price? Talking and singing plants? A dentist with a vendetta? The musical will have you laughing, singing along and wondering what else can come from the sky? Learn more about this production and get tickets.

Saturday, Oct. 31

Pancake Breakfast hosted by the Washburn Alumni Association & Foundation

- 9 - 11 a.m.
- Bradbury Thompson Alumni Center

Free for children 5 and under, $5 for adults. For more information and tickets, visit https://wualumni.org/homecoming

Homecoming Parade

- 11 a.m.
- See the parade route.

Homecoming Football Game Tailgating

- 12 p.m. - 2 p.m.
- Memorial Union Lawn and around Yager Stadium

Homecoming Football Game

- 2 p.m.
- Yager Stadium

Washburn University will take on Missouri Western State University for their Homecoming game. Ichabods of Honor winners announced during halftime. Homecoming Grand Champion announced during the 3rd quarter.

Washburn Theatre's Fall Musical: "Little Shop of Horrors"

- 7 p.m.
- Neese-Gray Theatre, Garvey Fine Arts Building

In this tale of a meek shopkeeper, Seymor seeks fame, fortune and love. He finds it all with a little help from an amazing and mysterious plant, but at what price? Talking and singing plants? A dentist with a vendetta? The musical will have you laughing, singing along and wondering what else can come from the sky? Learn more about this production and get tickets.

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For further information, contact:
Joy Bailes
Director of Internal Communications and Brand Management
Telephone: (785) 670-2153
Cell: (785) 230-1648
Email: [email protected]