Bethel Prepares for Homecoming 2026

McKENZIE — Bethel University is set to welcome students, alumni, faculty, and staff to campus for Homecoming 2026, an action-packed three-day celebration taking place from Thursday, October 15 through Saturday, October 17. Featuring time-honored traditions, spirited athletic contests, alumni reunions, and community festivities, this year's event promises something for every member of the Wildcat family.

Thursday, October 15: Kicking Off with the 'Day of Fun'

Festivities begin Thursday morning as classes pause for the annual Day of Fun. Starting at 10:00 a.m. at Vera Low and the Quad, attendees can participate in tie-dyeing, taco stands, pumpkin painting, and lawn games.

The excitement moves to the pickleball courts later in the evening with local food trucks Walley’s Taters and Sweet Heifers serving at 5:30 p.m., followed by the highly anticipated Faculty & Staff vs. Student Grudge Match at 7 p.m.

Friday, October 16: Golf, Art, Reunions, and the Wildcat Bonfire

Friday opens on the links with the Jerry Wilcoxson Memorial Golf Tournament at 10 a.m. at Carroll Lake Golf Club, supporting Bethel’s golf programs (reservations due October 9).

The afternoon features cultural and alumni gatherings:

• Faculty Art Show: 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. at Kathy Sacks Art Gallery in Dickey Fine Arts, themed The Great Outdoors.
• 76ers Reunion: 5:00 p.m. at The Wildcat Grille, hosted by Rev. Dr. Ron Stone (RSVP by Oct. 14).
• Hall of Fame & Alumni Banquet: 6 p.m. at the Vera Low Center Board Room, celebrating inductees with dinner, guest speakers, and a performance by Renaissance Resound (reservations due Oct. 9).

Friday evening concludes with the traditional Wildcat Bonfire at 8:30 p.m. behind the stadium, honoring senior football players and cheerleaders alongside s'mores, music, and the senior band.

Saturday, October 17: Parade, Wildcat Alley, and Football Clash

Homecoming reaches its peak on Saturday:

• Homecoming Parade: 10:00 a.m., marching from 1st Baptist Church through campus ending at Vera Low.
• Wildcat Alley: 11:00 a.m. along the street adjacent to Walter Butler Stadium, featuring local craft and food vendors alongside live music from the Renaissance Bluegrass Band.
• Catwalk: 11:45 a.m., rallying fans from Crisp Arena to Walter Butler Stadium.
• Homecoming Football Game: 1:30 p.m. kickoff at Walter Butler Stadium, where the Bethel Wildcats face off against the Cumberland Patriots.

Whether returning to alma mater roots or joining in current student spirit, Homecoming 2026 invites all Wildcats to reconnect, celebrate legacy, and build lasting memories.