So, whether you're planning on staying up for 24 hours to reign it all in this weekend or looking to attend every event during the week, here are the best homecoming survival tips:
Water is your best friend
While trekking to the homecoming parade and hopping from party to party, it is incredibly important to hydrate. Start drinking water before you head out for festivities, and be sure to end your night with it, too.
Take naps
Surviving homecoming weekend is no small feat, especially if you aren't planning on sleeping. Many students choose to stay up for 24 hours to enjoy every minute of the occasion. If this is your plan, try to get a nap in at some point during the afternoon or evening.
Buddy system
Keep a friend or a group of friends with you during the festivities. With streets packed with celebrations and parties, it's important not to stray from your group – and all the better to celebrate Ohio University with your friends.
Go to bed early
Most homecoming parties start in the early morning, from 2 a.m. to kegs and eggs at 6 a.m. To get the most out of the weekend, catch up on your sleep during the week leading up.
Caffeine is your second best friend
Caffeine can help you through the 24-hour celebrations when coupled with naps and water. Whether it's an energy drink or a coffee, it will be the much-needed boost to keep you going. Just make sure you don't consume too much.
Go to the homecoming parade
The Saturday morning parade is a must-see for the homecoming weekend. Bringing alums, students and Athens residents together is the perfect way to celebrate OU. This year, the homecoming parade will be on Saturday, Oct. 7, at 10 a.m., starting on West Union and ending at the Konnecker Alumni Center. It is one of the best events to show off your Bobcat pride.
No matter how you plan to celebrate homecoming, be safe and enjoy every second. The 24-hour window of celebrations can be tiring, but with these tips, it will be a weekend you never forget.