Music, food and fun are on the agenda for the Nov. 1 Homecoming Block Party in downtown Starkville.
At 5:30 p.m., the festivities will get under way at the National Bank of Commerce Plaza with an autograph party for head football coach Jackie Sherrill, the assistant coaches and team members.
At 6 p.m., the block party begins with the closing of University Drive from Jackson Street east to Caldwell Street. The streets will remain closed until 9 p.m.
The one-hour pep rally will feature remarks by coaches and players, as well as introduction of the Homecoming court and music by the Maroon Pep Band. "Bully" and the cheerleaders will lead the cheering, with students and organizations competing for NBC Spirit Awards ($100 first prize; $50 for second place).
Face painting and balloons will be provided for children. Complimentary soft drinks, popcorn and sno-cones will be available. Pizza, hamburgers and hot dogs will be sold.
At 7 p.m., the Pep Band, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia and the University Custodial Choir will perform.
At the east end of the block, partygoers may dance to the rock music of "Deep Greens." The Mississippi State student group will perform 7-8 p.m., followed by the "Turner Brothers Blues Band" from 8 until 9.
In case of rain, university officials will alert local radio and television stations.
For more information, contact Karen Hudson of the Mississippi State Alumni Association at (601) 325-2284.