Weatherford, OK – Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) is now accepting entries for the 2026 Homecoming Parade, set for Saturday, Oct. 31, at 10 a.m. on Main Street in Weatherford.
This year’s Homecoming theme, “Haunted Homecoming on the Hilltop,” brings a Halloween twist to one of SWOSU’s signature traditions. Students, campus organizations, alumni, businesses, schools and community groups are invited to participate and help fill Main Street with Bulldog pride.
Registration is now open at SWOSUHomecoming.com. All parade entries must be submitted by noon on Wednesday, Oct. 21. No entries will be accepted after the deadline. Marching bands should use the separate Marching Band Registration Form available on the Homecoming website.
All eligible float entries will have the opportunity to compete for cash prizes. The first-place float will receive $1,500, second place $1,000, and third place $700. Floats will be judged on originality, design and quality of construction, mechanics, application of the Homecoming theme, and how each float compares with the other entries.
An additional $250 prize will be awarded to the outstanding marching band. Questions regarding marching band participation may be directed to Dr. Robert Pippin at robert.pippin@swosu.edu.
A parade lineup map will be released on Monday of Homecoming week and emailed to all registered entries.
On parade day, all entries must be lined up on North Indiana Street, north of Main Street, by 9:30 a.m. The parade will begin promptly at 10 a.m.
Float entries must follow SWOSU parade rules and specifications, including size, construction and display requirements. Floats may not exceed 12 feet in width or 15 feet in height and must be fully skirted on at least three sides to qualify as a float. Entries incorporating horses or other animals must provide accompanying personnel with shovels or rakes.
Questions regarding fire regulations or the suitability of float materials may be directed to the Weatherford Fire Department at 580-772-5345.
For complete Homecoming information and the schedule of events, visit SWOSUHomecoming.com.
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