174 Homecoming 2 (USA vs. Japan) wrote: 051027, posted: 051119 Homecoming 1

Q from Japanese W

Photo Gallery > Minnesota Events > 10 - 11 > Homecoming Parade (We'll post more pix later)

Reply from American M:

“Homecoming is made up of many activities.

Parade: the marching band usually has a parade or a performance. I think sports teams and other school groups are often involved in the parade, and the Homecoming Royalty. I prepared for a marching band performance in junior high, but the parade was rained out, so I never got to march except in practice.

Dance: there is usually a Homecoming Dance. I think it is formal. (I never went to this.)

Crowning of Royalty: The Homecoming Queen and King are crowned. I think they are chosen by voting, but maybe there is a talent contest too. I am fuzzy on this one.

Football game: Usually a few weeks after school starts, so the team has a chance to play before Homecoming. This is a big game, and teams like to win their Homecoming game.

Pep rallies: during school hours, they may have an assembly to try to get the students and athletes excited about the events. Most kids like being out of class, but they don't always show "school spirit".

(Farther Qs: “Does Pep mean Pep for Pep talk: Inspirations with high sprits? During homecoming, it looks like the school is open, doesn’t it?”

The Answers: “Yes, that is what they meant by "pep". Yes, I think our school was open that day. Our high school Homecoming was on a Friday, and we had a pep rally that day. The football game was that evening.”)

There may be other activities that I am overlooking or have forgotten about, but I think these are the main activities.

My University had Homecoming recently. I wasn't paying attention and missed the event -- my 15 year reunion! My brother George emceed the alumni dinner, and my Dad attended. The alumni dinner was for all alumni, not just my year. Many other classes had reunions as well. I should have gone. Too late now. Colleges and universities use Homecoming as a good time for reunions. It is also a good time to get alumni involved so that they think about donating to their alma mater.” M (Wrote: 051007)

Comment: I like to capitalize Homecoming, but merriamwebster.com does not. So it's up to you if you want to change "my" section back to lowercase.

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