UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Visitors returning to Happy Valley for Homecoming are invited to a slew of events hosted by the Penn State Alumni Association, starting Friday, Nov. 10.
One of Penn State’s great traditions is that of Guard the Lion Shrine at University Park. For decades, Penn Staters have helped the Lion Ambassadors and ROTC stand guard over our beloved Nittany Lion. This year, the Alumni Association is expanding upon the great work of the Lion Ambassadors to create a festival-like event at Guard the Lion Shrine.
All Penn Staters are invited to attend the free event, which will feature live music from fan-favorite Go Go Gadjet.
Guard the Lion Shrine details include:
— free admission;
— festival-style foods and drink;
— appearances from Sue Paterno and other Penn State special guests;
— two-hour concert featuring GoGo Gadjet;
— branded giveaways.
Stay updated on Guard the Lion Shrine by visiting the Alumni Association’s website and Facebook event. Formal registration is not needed, though we’re encouraging everyone to use the Facebook event to RSVP and let us know they’re planning to attend, along with posting any photos and memories of attending Guard the Lion Shrine in previous years. Below are details on the Alumni Association’s additional events, with many Alumni Association groups participating in the parade. Each event name is hyperlinked for more information.
2017 Homecoming details
Ice Cream Social
1–4 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 10
Hintz Family Alumni Center
Homecoming Parade
6 p.m. start time
Friday, Nov. 10
Downtown State College/University Park campus
Guard the Lion Shrine
9 p.m.–Midnight
Friday, Nov. 10
Nittany Lion Shrine
Huddle with the Faculty
9-10 a.m. (complimentary continental breakfast at 8:30)
Saturday, Nov. 11
The Nittany Lion Inn
During the Homecoming contest against Rutgers, the Alumni Association students group will provide plenty of excitement while cheering on the Nittany Lions.
Since 1998, the Lion Ambassadors have created their signature “S-Zone” at Beaver Stadium, and during Homecoming, look for a pink-and-black version that pays homage to Penn State’s original school colors. The Lion Ambassadors are “ordinary students with extraordinary pride” who serve as Penn State’s Student Alumni Corps. They aim to communicate the University’s history, personality and traditions to students, alumni and friends through tours and programming. Visit their website to learn more.
The Blue & White Society — the student membership of the Penn State Alumni Association — distributes blue-and-white shakers to fans entering the student section at Penn State football home games. The shakers provide a high-visibility and interactive opportunity for students to show their support for the Nittany Lions. The Blue & White Society is the largest and one of the most active student organizations at Penn State, and you can visit the group’s website to learn more.
Additionally, Penn State Homecoming will hold events throughout the week. Click here for the schedule. Homecoming Week (Nov. 5–12) will double as Military Appreciation Week, with events leading up to Penn State’s contest against Rutgers on Saturday, Nov. 11. Kickoff is scheduled for noon. Stay updated on Homecoming 2017 by visiting the Alumni Association’s website and homecoming.psu.edu.