By Michela Griti
UNC Pembroke’s campus came alive on Thursday, Oct. 9, as the annual Homecoming Parade filled the street with color, music and excitement. Starting at Food Lion at 4 p.m. and ending at Grace P. Johnson Stadium, the parade featured more than 30 attendees and brought together students, faculty, alumni and community members in the celebration of the BraveNation pride.
The lively procession included a wide mix of participants. Campus organizations, departments, and offices joined in alongside alumni driving their personal and vintage cars. The mayor, town representatives and community figures such as local pageant winners waved to the cheering crowd. Both the UNCP marching band and local high school and middle school bands filled the air with their upbeat music.
Spectators lined the route, waving flags, clapping and taking photos as the floats passed by. The parade reflected the spirit of Homecoming at UNCP a time when Braves of all generations come together to reconnect, celebrate and show their school pride.
Homecoming is more than a weekend of events. It is a tradition that unites alumni, students, faculty, staff and the community through shared memories and excitement for the future. From gatherings to performances and the big game, each event captures the pride that defines the BraveNation.
For students like Kayla Patrick, the parade was a memorable part of her UNCP experience. “I have been to three parades, and this is my last UNCP parade,” she said. “I love the community and seeing all the floats.”
Others echoed her feelings. “Just supporting our students,” said Dedra Hunt. “We are all looking for ways to support our students and community.”
“It was a good parade,” said Destiny Locklear. “It was good to see all the different people and floats.”
“I loved the alumni float with the little kids. It was so cute,” said Shicoria Chavis.
Homecoming traditions like parades have deep roots in American college culture. The first recognized Homecoming is credited to the University of Missouri in 1911, which featured a football game, pep rally and parade to welcome back former students. Since then, Homecoming has become one of the most anticipated times of the year on campuses across the country, celebrating both school pride and community connection.
At UNCP, this year’s parade reminded everyone why Homecoming continues to hold such a special place in the hearts of students and alumni of all the time. Once again, the Homecoming parade showed what it means to be part of the BraveNation.