The University of Guelph will see plenty of activity during Homecoming 2019, with a roster of events aimed at attracting and keeping students on campus Sept. 28.

Johnston Green will be transformed into “Gryphon Park” for the occasion, with student events taking place from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The event will offer inflatable obstacle courses, selfie moments, outdoor games, “drag” racing with pedal cars, face painting and haircuts featuring the Gryphon logo. OJ the DJ and The Making Box will provide entertainment during breaks in the football game (Gryphons vs. Ottawa Gee Gees) that kicks off at 1 p.m. and will be simulcasted on Gryphon Park’s jumbo screen.

“Homecoming is a time of celebration for the University and the Gryphon community,” said Carrie Chassels, vice-provost (student affairs).

“This year, we made a concerted effort to hold more events on campus that may interest students before, during and after the game as part of a larger community effort to host a safe and successful Homecoming.”

U of G has worked closely with its student associations, neighbourhood groups, the City of Guelph and Guelph Police Services on the annual event for the past year, she said. Students are being encouraged to ensure their activities comply with city bylaws and respect neighbours; information for students is available online.

Planners have improved party registration for students and have focused on cleanup initiatives and information and educational campaigns. More police and bylaw officers will patrol local neighbourhoods than in past years. Free bus ridership along key routes will be available during peak hours.

“Our goal is to help ensure that Homecoming is fun and safe for everyone,” Chassels said.

She added that U of G is a model university for community and student engagement, and that most students behave responsibly and appropriately during Homecoming.

“The University and our students contribute to the wider Guelph community in many ways, and we are proud of that history and reputation,” she said.

“As a University, we promote behaviour that reflects our shared values and our positive, long-standing connections with the wider community.”

Homecoming also allows alumni to reconnect with classmates and to celebrate U of G, Chassels said.

Other Homecoming activities will include food trucks and vendors along Lang Way near Alumni Stadium.

An alumni lunch will begin at 11 a.m. Information and tickets are available online or by calling 519-824-4120, Ext. 56934, or emailing eventrsvp@uoguelph.ca.

The Gryphons football game vs. the Ottawa Gee Gees kicks off at 1 p.m. Singer Emily Reid will perform at half-time. Tickets for the game sell out quickly and may be purchased online.

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