ABERDEEN, S.D. - The Gypsy Day Parade, a central feature of Northern State University Homecoming festivities, is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024. The parade and homecoming football game mark the end of a week-long celebration on campus starting Monday, Sep. 30, 2024. As a cornerstone of the celebration, the parade embodies community spirit and engagement, offering an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

Registration for the parade opens on Monday, July 15, allowing ample time for participants to prepare their entries. The Gypsy Days Homecoming Committee extends a warm invitation to local businesses, organizations and community members to participate in this time-honored tradition.

In conjunction with the parade announcement, the Northern State University Student Homecoming Committee has revealed the 2024 homecoming theme: "Wolves in Candy Land." The whimsical theme is expected to inspire creative float designs and colorful costumes throughout the festivities.

Additionally, the committee has announced the homecoming royal court candidates. The homecoming king candidates include Simon Bickford from the Newman Center, Jacob Ebeling from SAAC, Braden Freeman from the Honors Program, Michael Grebner from Residence Hall Association, and Colton Wicks from TRIO Scholar Association.

The homecoming queen candidates are Ashlyn Haselhorst from the Lumin Ministry, Nevaeh Meyer from the School of Education Clubs, Madison Park from Campus Activities Board, Ava Pickard from the Music Department, and Randi Schuster from the Honors Program.

The Gypsy Day Parade and the accompanying homecoming festivities serve as a testament to the strong sense of community and Wolves pride at Northern State University. As the week of Sep. 30 through Oct. 5 approaches, excitement is building for what promises to be a sweet celebration.

For more information about the Gypsy Day Parade, including registration details and event schedules, please visit the Northern State University Gypsy Days Homecoming website at https://northern.edu/about/gypsy-days/. Interested parties can also contact the Gypsy Days Homecoming Committee at homecoming@northern.edu.