Golden Hawks have long debated their #1 favourite holiday, and newcomers be warned: neither of the two top contenders include a gift exchange or hot cider in front of the fire. St. Paddy’s Day and Homecoming are the fan favourites, and the latter is right around the corner! Check out this guide on how to make the most of that beautiful fall Saturday in the company of your friends, with as few party fouls as possible.
DO plan your outfit ahead of time.
Running around the night before the mall closes, or the morning before the game, is stress that you don’t need. Make sure to figure out how you’re going to rock your purple and gold days in advance, with room for emergencies. Your yellow tank top shrinks in the wash on Tuesday? No worries, because the bookstore still has a cute WLU tee in your size in stock! Coordinating outfits with your roommates or friends is fun too! It may seem lame, but you won’t regret it when you look back on pictures years from now. Better to look lame together than lame by yourself, right?
DO eat a hearty breakfast.
It can be super easy to pass on breakfast when HOCO shenanigans begin so early in the morning, but trust us when we say that you will be so thankful you ate. And no, a cold shot doesn’t count! Wake up a bit earlier than you would have and get those frying pans sizzling with purple-dyed pancakes, or for a healthy alternative mix it up with blended strawberries and blueberries. Remember to eat throughout the day as well to keep your energy pumping!
DO remember sunscreen and water.
While Homecoming may happen at the end of September, sometimes those afternoon rays are still scorching – especially at the game where there is limited shade. Protecting your skin with a quick application of some sunscreen will keep you from being that purple-and-yellow-clad tomato in the bleachers. While you’re at it, why don’t you bring those Laurier shades or a WLU hat for added sun relief? The direct heat can also leave you dehydrated, so a cold bottle of water is a safe bet to keep on you as well.
DO be careful with mid-day naps
Self-care is important on HOCO weekend with all the running around, partying, and the blazing sun. Don’t be afraid to take a nap at 2pm if you need to, but make sure you set an alarm and actually get up when it goes off. While it is incredibly important to be well-rested, don’t get lazy. You have your entire life to take naps, and only a few Laurier homecomings to remember!
DON’T go too hard the night before, and DON’T sleep in too late the morning of.
While many of the pre-homecoming celebrations may rope you in, remember two things: go easy on the drinking, and don’t stay up too late. Being hung over when your roommates bang down your door to wake you up with purple and yellow jell-o shots is not ideal, and neither is sleeping away most of the day. Most of the fun occurs between 10am and 3pm, so don’t miss any of the action buried under your covers. Get a good night’s rest so you can be prepared and energized for the HOCO festivities the next morning!
DON’T get a drinking ticket.
That beer just isn’t worth it. If you choose to consume alcohol on this glorious holiday, make sure you do so responsibly. That includes refraining from drinking alcoholic beverages on public property, and knowing your limit so that you do not become publicly intoxicated. You don’t want to be that girl that passes out on Ezra.
DON’T lose track of time.
While it is very important to enjoy the day and go with the flow, you don’t want to miss the game, AKA the purpose of the entire day! Leave your home or pre-game for it in good time. Equally important is making it into the bar that night. The day can feel incredibly long, but keep your eye on the clock once it gets dark out, as the lines outside every bar will steadily build. If you do choose to go to a bar that night, it is crucial not to leave too late, or you risk waiting in line endlessly – potentially to the point where you won’t even get in.
DON’T forget to have fun.
It really is one of the greatest days of the year. Your surroundings on HOCO day will be a sea of purple and gold, so much Laurier pride, and smiles all around from you, your friends, and your classmates. Stop and take pictures with friends you haven’t seen in a while but run into today! Don’t forget to chant “it’s great to be a Laurier Golden Hawk” at every chance you get! Before you know it, you’ll be out of this place and this annual celebration will be nothing but a fond memory.
Have a great Homecoming, Golden Hawks, and party responsibly!