Homecoming Weekend showcases Penn arts, academics and athletics

From Oct. 28 through 31, Penn alumni, family and friends from near and far will make their way down Locust Walk, to Franklin Field and into Houston Hall for Homecoming Weekend.

The weekend’s roster includes arts and culture events, classes and workshops, networking, football and the Alumni Award of Merit Gala. Key events include a tour of Penn’s architectural masterpieces on Oct. 29 from 2 to 3:15 p.m., an Alumni Arts Fair on Oct. 30 from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.; QuakerFest, the pre-game tailgate picnic on Oct. 30 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; and the Homecoming football game on Oct. 30 at 1 p.m. where the Quakers take on Brown.

Penn student performing arts groups will also showcase their talents Oct. 28 through 30, including the all-female musical comedy troupe Bloomers, and Penn Dance and Penn Glee Club who will perform their collaborative work, “ROCK HARD CAFE.”

Talks range from a discussion of Penn’s urban renewal from 1950 to 2000 on Oct. 30 at 11 a.m.; the new science of social networks on Oct. 30 at 12:15 p.m.; and a panel discussion on queer art on Oct. 30 at 4 p.m. In addition, on Oct. 30 at 4 p.m., the Kelly Writers House celebrates 15 years as a campus writing hub with readings and reminiscences by former students of KWH Director Al Filreis.

Participants can also attend one or more “Classes Without Quizzes,” on everything from the politics of water to a master class with organist Peter Krasinski.

On Friday, Oct. 29 from 6 to 10 p.m., Penn will honor extraordinary alumni volunteer leaders, classes, and regional clubs who exemplify lifelong engagement with the University. At the event, Pulitzer Prize-winning poet C. K. Williams, C’59, will be honored with the Penn Creative Spirit Award.

A full list of Homecoming Weekend events can be found on the Penn Alumni site. Participants who haven’t yet registered can do so during Friday and Saturday of Homecoming Weekend in a tent on College Green.