NATCHITOCHES – Rockin’ on the Riverbank is returning to Natchitoches Oct. 26. The popular Friday-night-before-Homecoming Festival took a one-year hiatus during last year’s riverbank renovation but will take place in and around the Fleur de Lis Stage in downtown Natchitoches with music, vendors and more.
Rockin’ on the Riverbank began several years ago as the university’s gift to the community and those who attend the annual Homecoming parade and pep rally. NSU fans, alumni, supporters and their families are welcome to listen to the band, visit with friends and enjoy the atmosphere. Rockin’ on the Riverbank is free and open to the public.
Northwestern State’s Homecoming Parade will roll at 5:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 26, and will feature student groups, floats and throws. The parade will start at NSU’s main gate, travel down Second Street, turn right onto Rue Touline and proceed to Rue Beauport for a 6 p.m. pep rally on the Fleur De Lis Stage where the Homecoming Honor Court will be recognized and spirit groups will perform. Rockin’ on the Riverbank will follow the pep rally. Homecoming Awards will be presented to student groups at 7:30 p.m.
This year’s Rockin’ on the Riverbank will feature the band Live 5, which covers a variety of genres and artists with dance, pop, funk and rock to suit any occasion, according to the band’s website.
Downtown by the Decades for NSU alumni will begin at 8:30 p.m. where alumni will meet up at specific locations by graduation year. Alumni from the 1950s and 1960s will meet at the Pioneer Pub. Alumni from the 1970s will meet in the main dining room at Merci Beaucoup while alumni from the 1980s will meet in the Merci Beaucoup banquet room. Alumni from the 1990s will meet at Bon Ami above The Landing. Alumni from the 2000s will meet at Mama’s Blues Room and alumni from the 2010s will meet at Maglieux’s.
A full schedule of Homecoming events is available at northwesternalumni.com. Times and locations for some events may be subject to change, so those planning to attend should check with the host to verify plans.
