The upcoming weekend is set to bring a variety of events to Boone and the High Country, with Appalachian State University’s homecoming celebration taking center stage on campus. From spirited races and carnivals to community markets and musical performances, both students and area residents have opportunities to engage in local happenings. Beyond the university, a long-standing regional festival will also mark its 36th year, offering a full slate of activities for all ages.
Festivities on Sanford Mall kick off early with the annual sober tailgate, organized by the Mountaineer Recovery Community and Wellness & Prevention Services. This event is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the Western side of Sanford Mall, serving as a pre-game gathering before App State’s Homecoming game against Old Dominion, which is slated for a 1 p.m. kickoff. Attendees of the sober tailgate can enjoy yard games, a selection of food, non-alcoholic beverages, and the added fun of two inflatables. Following this, from 1-3 p.m., Community-Engaged Leadership will organize a free Farmer’s Market, also on Sanford Mall, as an integral part of App State’s homecoming celebration. The market will provide access to various food items, including canned goods and fresh produce.
As the afternoon transitions into evening, Sanford Mall will host two more vibrant homecoming events. The Appalachian Student Ambassadors are set to host their annual ‘NEERly Naked Mile, a homecoming race taking place from 6-7 p.m. Check-in for participants will commence at 5:15 p.m. To participate and earn homecoming points, registration is required. Students running or walking are encouraged to wear a minimal amount of clothing. Participation also requires either the donation of a winter clothing item or a Venmo donation directed toward the Hospitality House. Simultaneously, from 6-8 p.m., APPS and the Campus Activities Office are coordinating the Homecoming Carnival. This carnival aims to bring a lively atmosphere to students on Sanford Mall, featuring a range of games, various giveaways, inflatable attractions, and other theme-related events designed for student enjoyment.
Elsewhere on campus, a cultural performance is scheduled at the Rosen Concert Hall. CORolina, identified as a quartet comprising four horn professors from various parts of North Carolina, will perform from 6-7 p.m. This event is open to the public without a ticket, and entrance requires no fee upon arrival. For those unable to attend in person, the performance will also be live-streamed, allowing broader access to the musical presentation.
Outside of the university campus, Sugar Mountain Resort will host its 36th annual Oktoberfest over two days. The event is scheduled for both Saturday and Sunday, running from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. This long-running festival promises a full schedule of activities for visitors. Attendees can anticipate live music performances, booths showcasing arts and crafts, an engaging Bavarian costume contest, and a dedicated kids fun center. These attractions are among a host of other activities planned for the festive weekend at Sugar Mountain.
