Bethel to Celebrate Homecoming this Week

McKENZIE — Homecoming is October 30-November 1 and the university is bringing the entire campus community together for three days filled with connection, Wildcat spirit, and new memories.

It all kicks off with Fall Fest — a brand-new Bethel tradition in which most classes are canceled so everyone can join the fun! Enjoy food trucks, games, and live music as we launch Homecoming in style.

The celebration continues with athletic events, performances, and moments that remind us why Bethel feels like home — all leading up to the big Homecoming game vs. Georgetown College!

Homecoming Schedule

THURSDAY, OCT. 30: FALL FEST
Step out of the office or classroom and enjoy a fun-filled day of community! All are welcome to join in a day of fall fun: tie-dye, pumpkins, food trucks, donkey softball, and more. Most classes are canceled as we kick off Homecoming with a brand-new tradition! Full schedule coming soon.

5:30 p.m. - Food Trucks

Try amazing food from local food trucks, Walley’s Taters and Sweet Heifers

6 p.m. - Donkey Softball - Kahlden Complex

Come watch and laugh as volunteer teams take to the field riding donkeys!

FRIDAY, OCT. 31: HALLOWEEN
10 a.m. - Jerry Wilcoxson Memorial Golf Tournament - Carroll Lake Golf Club

Join us for a morning golf at Carroll Lake! All proceeds from the tournament help support the men’s and women’s golf teams.
Reservations are due by October 30, 2025.

4 p.m. - Lady Wildcats Basketball - Crisp Arena

Bethel Wildcats vs Johnson University Royals

6 p.m. - Hall of Fame and Alumni Banquet - Vera Low Board Room

We invite all alumni to join us. Golden Graduates and Wall of Faith Additions will be recognized! It will be a fun night to reconnect over dinner, speakers, and a performance by our Renaissance Resound!
Reservations were due by October 25, 2025.

8:30 p.m. - Wildcat Bonfire - Behind the Stadium

Enjoy our celebration bonfire as we recognize our senior football players and cheerleaders! There will be s’mores, music, and so much more!

SATURDAY, NOV. 1: HOMECOMING DAY
10:30 a.m. - Homecoming Parade - Old City
Florist lot to Walter Butler Stadium

Join SGA and campus organizations for an energetic march to the stadium.

11 a.m. - Wildcat Alley - Parking Lot in Front of Stadium

It’s game day! Kick off a fun-filled day with games, food, and tailgating fun with the Renaissance Bluegrass Band!

11:45 a.m. - Catwalk - Crisp Arena to Walter Butler Stadium

Get ready to make some noise for our Wildcats!

1:30 p.m. - Football Game - Walter Butler Stadium

Bethel Wildcats vs Georgetown College Tigers

2 p.m. and 7 p.m. - “Newsies” by Renaissance at The Dixie

This play is based on the real-life Newsboys Strike of 1899, as they fight for justice.

4 p.m. - Lady Wildcats Basketball - Crisp Arena

Bethel Wildcats vs Indiana Wesleyan Wildcats

About Bethel University: Bethel University began as Bethel Seminary in 1842, operated by the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. It was moved from McLemoresville to its current location in McKenzie in 1872. The school was renamed Bethel College in 1847 and officially changed its name to Bethel University in 2009.

The four-year liberal arts university offers associates, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees.