The Pitt State homecoming committee and the Office of Police and Public safety launched homecoming week on Monday, Sept. 6 with a celebration filled to the brim with games, food and Gorilla spirit. The event drew a large crowd to the Gorilla Village for an evening of free inflatable attractions, activities, and barbecue. It helped to mark the official start of the weeklong series of events that will behold students up to Saturday’s homecoming football game.
The occasion asked that students check-in with their CORQ apps and move up to the table to grab a neon green wristband. The event itself was created for students, and the food, attractions and activities were all free.
“This place is really busy,” Tyne Ellis said, a freshman majoring in social work. She attended her first homecoming event that evening, emphasizing that it was still a good experience. “It was pretty fun though, I will say. I talked to a lot of new people today.”
Students enjoyed a variety of attractions that included two large bouncy houses, a giant inflatable chair for group photos, and a very vibrant balloon arch, serving the purpose as a backdrop for pictures. Gus the Gorilla made an appearance in a space suit, gladly posing for photos and walking around to greet students as well.
A popular part of the evening was the Stuff-a-Gorilla station. The activity gave students the opportunity to make their own plush version of Gus to pridefully take home. Students lined up to try the human hamster ball racing course as well, rolling across the mats in the large inflatable spheres while people cheered them on.
For a more thrill-seeking attendee, the wrecking ball amusement ride hopefully spun and swung enough to offer the adrenaline rush and laughter they were looking for.
All throughout the evening, candidates for homecoming king and queen had their tables set up in a stretch at the event, passing out pins and treats while talking to students to possibly gain their vote. The competition remained friendly but added to the celebrative atmosphere and gave students a chance to meet their peers that would represent various organizations.
Police and Public Safety officers served a barbecue dinner to students as well; the free meal became a big draw to the event with long lines forming early in the evening.
“It was kind of weird, there was no music,” Ellis said, noting that even while the experience was lively, the lack of a DJ or just music in general stood out to be awkward. Still, she liked the fun atmosphere and energy of the evening, making it memorable.
The kickoff event has become a tradition designed to bring students together and boost campus morale, while preparing students for a very spirited week. It also offers an opportunity for students to engage themselves with others.
By the end of the night, the Gorilla Village was filled with laughter, conversation and the sight of happy students enjoying an event made for them. The high turnout showed the strong sense of community that will continue through the week, reminding us of the fun, friendship, and pride that comes to the campus during homecoming week.