NEW BRITIAN – Anticipation is building as Central Connecticut State University prepares for one of its most spirited traditions.  

Homecoming and Family Weekend returns to campus on Sept. 25–28, uniting students, families, and alumni for four days of jam-packed events from pep rallies and milestone class reunions to football, volleyball and soccer matchups. 

Organizers like Emily Weiner, co-organizer for Family Day with Student Activities and Leadership Development, say the weekend is designed to showcase Blue Devil pride and strengthen connections across generations. 

“My hope is that students and families are able to reconnect during our Family Day celebration,” said Weiner. “For some students, this will be the first time seeing their families for an extended period of time since the beginning of the semester, so being able to capitalize on that time while also spreading the Central spirit is what matters most.” 

The festivities begin Thursday evening with the annual Alumni Athletic Hall of Fame induction dinner from 6 to 9 p.m., honoring individuals who have made a lasting mark in Blue Devil history.  

Later that night, a pep rally hosted by student organizations including the Student Government Association, Central Activities Network, Inter-Residence Council and the Brazen Blue Devils will bring students together in the Student Center Circle with food and giveaways. 

Friday features a packed lineup.  

The day starts with a welcome luncheon with CCSU President Zulma R. Toro at Hilltop Café, followed by guided campus tours, a planetarium show and faculty-led presentations. Alumni can reconnect with classmates during milestone reunions or explore campus with family. 

The evening centerpiece is the Eras Celebration, an outdoor festival with decade-themed tents, live music, food, and drinks designed to bring graduates from the 1950s through the 2020s together. Fire pits, photo stations and a mix of nostalgic and modern offerings aim to make the event a highlight for returning alumni. 

“Homecoming is important for Central alumni because it provides a dedicated time to return to campus, reconnect with classmates, celebrate traditions, and see how the university has grown,” said Kristen Gordon, director of Alumni Relations. “It fosters pride, strengthens lifelong bonds, and reminds alumni that they remain a vital part of the Central community.” 

Gordon added that events like milestone reunions and the Eras Celebration “offer a unique opportunity to connect with Blue Devils across generations… The event will feature decade-themed tents to nostalgic treats, it’s designed so there’s something for everyone.”  

Saturday marks the heart of the weekend.  

Families can take part in the Family Fun Fest from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Student Center, which includes games, crafts, breakfast and giveaways. Tailgating opens nearby before the football team takes the field against Dartmouth at noon on Arute Field. 

“I’m most excited for our Kizer’s Coffee Bar for the students and adults, and the Stuff-A-Pal table for our younger visitors,” Weiner said. “Family Day is a great way to get members outside of the CCSU community fired up and involved with school spirit. This is a great way to show off all of the perks of community at CCSU.” 

Michael Castiello, a senior at CCSU, has attended multiple Homecoming events, said the culture makes the weekend special. 

“It’s always a fun way to connect with friends and celebrate CCSU,” Castiello said. “The traditions and events make you really understand and feel a part of the university.” 

Alumni will also gather for a buffet brunch at 8:30 a.m. in the C.J. Huang Recreation Center, complete with mimosas and Bloody Marys, before attending a banner dedication ceremony honoring distinguished graduates. 

“Honoring our alumni at such events is an opportunity for the university to share how proud we are of our Blue Devils,” Gordon said. “It creates connection by celebrating shared history and recognizing individual achievements. That combination strengthens alumni identity and inspires current students to envision their own potential.” 

On the field, student-athletes say the Homecoming atmosphere is unmatched. 

“Playing in the Homecoming game is one of the highlights of the year,” said junior football player Randy De la Cruz. “The energy from fans and the campus makes those games unforgettable.” 

At 4 p.m., women’s volleyball faces Saint Francis University at Detrick Gymnasium. 

For alumni, returning to campus offers more than just a chance to watch games. Recent graduate Nolan Devivo said he’s eager to experience the weekend for the first time as an alum.

“Coming back to campus for the first time since graduation gives me a special feeling,” Devivo said. “It’s going to be both nostalgic but awesome to see students, families, and alumni all around campus together celebrating.” 

Sunday closes out the weekend with men’s and women’s soccer games at the Central Soccer Field, including a women’s matchup against the University of New Haven led by CCSU alum and class of 2020 Hall of Famer Laura Duncan ’05. 

“As this is my first Homecoming celebration as both a student and staff member, I’m excited to see how all the families and students interact with one another throughout the duration of our Family Day events, tailgate, and football game,” Weiner said. 

With athletics, alumni traditions, and family activities, Homecoming and Family Day remain one of Central’s largest and most cherished events and a reminder that being a Blue Devil lasts long after graduation.