James Madison University’s homecoming football game sold out within a day after ESPN’S “College GameDay” announced that they are headed to the ‘burg for the first time. Usually JMU has trouble filling up the stadium, and always is encouraging students to stray from the tailgates to enjoy the game. However, this week is different.
If you are reading this and trying to find something to do homecoming weekend, I am sure you are familiar with these dreaded screens:
FYI -- Grey areas are sold out (which is the whole stadium).
For those of you who weren’t able to snag a ticket, don’t worry. There are still ways to feel included on JMU’s big day.
1. Tailgate
What: Tailgate before and during the game.
Where: Multiple parking lots throughout campus.
When: Tailgate opens at 8am Saturday, October 24.
How much? Free (if you are going to a friend's).
Why: The fans of James Madison University football come together to participate in one of football's greatest traditions -- tailgating! What better way to show your passion then charring some hot dogs with friends, screaming for the Purple and Gold, and showing visiting fans what it means to be a member of the JMU Nation. James Madison University promotes responsible and safe tailgating. We believe we have the best fans in the country and want to continue the great game day experience that takes place on JMU Football game days. To ensure a positive experience for everyone and the safety of our football fans, the following policies will be enforced.
Find out more: http://jmusports.com/sports/2014/6/18/GD_061814492...
2. Randy Black Live!
What: Brothers Craft Brewing is hosting Randy Black Live!
Where: Brothers Craft Brewing
When: Saturday, October 24, 8-11pm
How Much: Free
Why: Join us for an evening of great live music from Randy Black! Randy is a very fun and talented musician, and we always have a great time when he plays here.
Mashita will be outside cooking up some absolutely incredible food, so don’t miss your chance to enjoy that while you are here!
Find out more: https://brotherscraftbrewing.com/event/randy-black...
3. Farmers Market
Photo via visitharrisonburgva.com
What: The Harrisonburg Farmers Market.
Where: 228 South Liberty Street
When: Saturday 8am-1pm.
How much: Free!
Why: The Harrisonburg Farmers Market mission is to provide the public with easy access to fresh, nutritious, locally produced agricultural goods and crafts of the highest quality, to assist local and regional farmers and other producers to directly market their products to the local customer base, and to support environmental stewardship and community well-being
Find out more:
http://www.harrisonburgfarmersmarket.com
4. Stompmania -- 2015 Homecoming Step Show
Photo via @jmutickets Twitter
What: Stompmania-2015 Homecoming Step Show
Where: Wilson Hall Auditorium
When: Saturday, October 24, 2015. Doors open at 7pm and the show starts at 8pm.
How much? Students with college ID $10, and $12 for general public if you pay in advance. On the day of the event, tickets are $20 online and at the door. Children aged two and under are free.
Why: Stompmania features performances from JMU's Multicultural Greek Life sororities and fraternities. The Step Show also serves as a fundraiser for the competing organizations. The winning team's chapter receives a monetary award. This year, two organizations are celebrating milestone chapter anniversaries: Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. will both be celebrating 30 years on campus. The alumni enjoy returning for Homecoming weekend to see their members actively involved in Greek life and showcasing their hard work, talent, and pride.
Stompmania is an event that celebrates each ICGC chapter and the diversity at JMU. It showcases both the collaboration and the personalities of each individual organization that participates. Chervon Moore, Campus Advisor for the Inter-Cultural Greek Council, states, "The step show is an opportunity for each organization to represent themselves, show their pride and enthusiasm, and fundraise for their chapters. It also helps raise awareness on campus about Multicultural Greek Life.
Find out more: https://www.jmu.edu/events/multicultural/2015/10/2015-homecoming-step-show.shtml
5. Run a 5k
Photo via jmu.edu
What: Homecomings Dukes’ 5k Run/Walk
Where: UREC
When: Saturday, October 24.
How much: $25
Why: JMU Alumni, students, faculty/staff, and community members, start Homecoming off with UREC's annual run/jog/walk through JMU's beautiful campus! All participants will receive a race shirt! Strollers and pets on leashes are welcome (please note that pets may not be brought into UREC).
Find out more: http://www.jmu.edu/recreation/intramural-sports/sp...
6. Book signing
Photo via amazon.com
What: Lou Campanelli Book Signing
Where: JMU Bookstore
When: 11am-3pm Saturday, October 24.
How much: Free
Why: JMU's first men's basketball coach, Lou Campanelli, will be debuting his book "Dare to Dream" at Homecoming. The book is subtitled, "How James Madison University became Co-Ed and Shocked the World." Pick up a copy of the book and visit with Coach at the JMU Bookstore.
Find out more: http://www.alumni.jmu.edu/s/1591/gid3-Alumni/socia...
man running in forestPhoto by 
