I know for some it may be hard to believe that a small town in eastern South Dakota could have a college homecoming celebration that beats all the rest. I mean, we ride horse and buggies, don't brush our teeth and maybe shower once a week (according to many South Dakota outsiders), but this one week during the South Dakota State University academic year changes this stereotype, and here's why:
1. The Brookings Community
Sure we have a big college campus that is placed in the middle of a small town of about 20,000 people. But during Hobo Week, the Brookings community and SDSU join as one. From Rally at the Rails in downtown Brookings to Bum-A-Meal (for us poor college students) the community of Brookings brings in all Jackrabbits as their own, and we wouldn't want it any other way.
2. Mind-Blowing Tailgating
Yes, every other college has their idea of tailgating but nothing can compare to the hobo day tailgating extravaganza. Thousands of students, friends, family, and alumni come together to eat lots of home cooked food and let's not forget: drink beer and lots of it.
3. The One and Only Hobo Day Parade
The Hobo Day parade is the perfect start to our Hobo Day. By 8:00 a.m. thousands of community members, alumni, students, families as well as out of state friends gather along the main avenues of Brookings and begin the once a year celebration of Hobo Day that has continued for 103 years. From community floats, the state governors attendance, to the one and only Pride of the Dakotas marching band; this parade brings the state together to begin the biggest celebration in the Dakotas.
4. Every day has a bash
During Hobo Week everyone has classes they must attend and well, try to pass, but every night in Brookings is a celebration during Hobo Week. From small get-togethers to keg races, to bashes that include over 300 people, the Jackrabbits never cease to keep the hobo vibes alive throughout the 7 days of Hobo Week... and then some.
5. It is socially acceptable to tap a keg (or three) at 7 a.m.
South Dakota State students celebrate all week and are eager to keep the excitement going by starting the special Hobo Day nice and early.
Of course, the Jackrabbits are more than excited to attend the one and only tailgating housing thousands of fans at 10:00 a.m., but let's be honest, who can wait until 10:00 a.m. to crack open a beer?
6. The Miss Homely Coming Pageant
Yes, this is exactly what it sounds like. Here at South Dakota State University, we aren't interested in a flawless, tall, blonde "Miss Homecoming." Nope, we are looking for the fella that can wear a dress just as well as he can work it and let's not forget the heels that he must conquer to receive his award as Miss Homely Coming.
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7. Jackrabbit Football
What is a college homecoming without the football game? With thousands of fans gathering to cheer on our fellow Jacks, school spirit is at a maximum level of blue and yellow pride. Lets not forget the new Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium that will be completed in Fall of 2016. Not only will this stadium be the largest in South Dakota holding up to 19,340 seats, but it will also hold one of the largest scoreboards in the Football Championship Subdivision at a whopping 3,100 square feet.
8. You WILL Meet Down to Earth Individuals
Hobo Days may only last 7 days, but the bonds that are made throughout the week will last... at least until the next Hobo Day celebration. South Dakota State is home to some of the most down to earth individuals a newcomer could find. When attending Hobo Days next year (because I know you will), don't hesitate to walk up to a Jackrabbit. They will be more than willing to offer a friendly conversation... along with a beer or two of course.
9. It brings, basically, all of South Dakota together...even our arch-rival USD.
Needless to say, it is no secret SDSU and the University of South Dakota (USD) have one of the biggest rivalries in the nation. However, SDSU's homecoming is the one time of year that the Jackrabbits and Coyotes join together to celebrate the #1 college in the state. This rare occurrence includes interacting with family, friends, football, and let's not forget...beer.
10. Nobody has to shower or brush their teeth
Okay, maybe the stereotypes are right. Sure we usually try to keep up with our personal hygiene but how are students supposed to look like Hobos for a week if we shower and brush our teeth? Let's not forget the Hobos and Hoboettes that join the One-Month Club, which includes following the tradition of unchecked beards and legs one month prior to Hobo Day... now that's school spirit.
