Each year, large crowds gather across campus to watch it, alumni travel to see it, hundreds of people walk in it and it is roughly two miles long. What is it? You guessed it: It’s the University’s annual Homecoming Parade.

The parade is on Oct. 12 at 6 p.m. It begins on Sixth Street and ends on Oregon Street. It will travel along Armory, Wright and Green streets, as well as Matthews Avenue.

Since a significant portion of the parade is going to travel along Wright and Green streets, the front of the Illini Union is one of multiple prime viewing spots. You can go inside the Union throughout the parade to grab snacks or drinks.

If the front of the Union gets overwhelmingly crowded, a viable alternative is to watch the parade from the front of one of the buildings that surround the Main Quad, such as the English Building, Altgeld Hall, the Natural History Building or the Chemistry Annex.

If you’re a big fan of Alma, set up camp on the corner of Wright and Green streets. Keep Alma company while cheering on the floats that pass by. And don’t forget to snap a selfie with Alma; she’ll be decked out in some serious Homecoming attire.

The corner of Wright and Green streets is a great location if you want to grab a bite to eat before or after. There are plenty of places for a quick bite to satisfy your hunger or your sweet tooth, such as Coco Mero, Panda Express and Panera Bread.

If you need more orange and blue, stop by Te Shurt on Wright Street to grab affordable spirit wear. It’s the apparel shop that’s closest to the parade’s location.

The Marching Illini will be entering the parade at the corner of Sixth and Gregory streets; if you’re a big band fan, you’ll want to be there to see and hear their first steps.

If you’re a huge parade fanatic, I would suggest being a part of it. Find out if your RSO, alumni organization or specified college is participating and see if you can tag along for the ideal experience.

The annual Homecoming Parade is something you should definitely see, especially if you’re a freshman. It’s a great way to check out different clubs and RSOs, meet new people and show your school spirit.

Gather your friends, family and classmates to see one of the University’s most well-known traditions. You don’t want to miss it.

Aayush is a freshman in Engineering.

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