University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Homecoming
The annual fall tradition where the campus community, alumni and friends gather to celebrate school spirit. A tradition at the University of Minnesota since 1914, Homecoming features events like student sports and philanthropy competitions, lip sync performances, a bonfire, a pep fest, a parade and the traditional Gopher homecoming football game.
Cheerleading
Cheerleading had its start at the University of Minnesota. In 1898, student Johnny Campbell offered to lead cheers at football games. After Campbell and his "yell leaders" pepped up the crowd during a 17-6 Gopher victory over Northwestern, the tradition of cheerleading was born. The tradition continues today, with the cheerleading and dance teams performing at all home football games and many hockey and basketball games.
Spring Jam
Spring Jam is a week long celebration in April that celebrates warm weather and the end of another great school year. This student run event features concerts, a student band competition, sports, an art festival, philanthropy, contests, free food, and an outdoor campus community block party. Also there's a ballyhoo, which is a dance competition.