K-State Homecoming 2025: The Parade You Can't Miss
It’s that time of year again—purple runs deep and the streets of Manhattan, KS, are about to burst into Wildcat spirit. The 2025 KSU Homecoming Parade is shaping up to be a stellar highlight of Homecoming Week, and whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-timer, this guide will help you soak it all in (and snag the best viewing spots). Think “Purple" energy everywhere beginning mid-afternoon on Friday, but sprinkled with Wildcat pride and hometown charm.
🎉 When & Where: Parade Details for 2025
- Date & Time for the Parade: Friday, October 10, 2025, beginning at 5 pm.
- If you have trick or treaters, you will want to get to Aggieville early (see below for times and info.
📌 The Parade Route (Step by Step)
While an official detailed street-by-street map isn’t publicly detailed in all sources, here’s the general route flow based on official info and past parades:
- Start at Manhattan Town Center — the parade kicks off in Downtown Manhattan!
- Downtown Manhattan / Poyntz Avenue —grab a spot along the road or at one of the restaurants' outdoor platforms to enjoy dinner or drinks for the parade.
- Through Aggieville — the route winds into Aggieville
- Ending in City Park — the parade reaches its finale at City Park for the pep rally.
Because the parade flows through both downtown and Aggieville, many parts are walkable..
🕶️ Best Spots to Watch the Parade
Here’s where to situate yourself for maximum fun, photos, and spirit:
| Spot | Why It’s a Great Choice | Tips & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Poyntz Avenue (Downtown) | Central downtown, wide sidewalks, ideal for float photography and people watching | Arrive early to stake out a front-row curb spot. Shade or street trees may offer relief. |
| Aggieville (Moro / 11th / 12th Streets) | Intimate setting, local businesses backing the windows, candy tosses from floats | Bring a folding chair if you want comfort. Watch for candy and high fives. |
| Town Center (Start Zone) | See the parade entries roll out — lots of excitement as participants depart | Great for quick interviews, photos of decorated floats before they move. |
| City Park (End / Pep Rally zone) | Finish line energy + direct transition to pep rally after parade ends | Stick around for announcements, band, cheerleaders, and crowd interactions. |
| Corner Intersections | Anywhere corners intersect major pedestrian flow can give 2-sided viewing | Be mindful of crosswalks and safety. Arrive early for sidewalk space. |
🌟 Fun Facts, Traditions & K-State Flair
- Theme: This year's homecoming theme is “K-State of Mind.”
- Over 100 Years of Tradition: K-State’s Homecoming began back in 1915.
- Trick or Treat in Aggieville: Before the parade, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., Aggieville businesses will host trick-or-treating in the ville.
- Float Registration & Competitions: Student groups, local businesses, fraternities, and sororities design parade floats for the homecoming parade.
- Grand Marshal Honor: Cliff Rovelto is this year's selection as Grand Marshal. Coach Rovelto's long legacy at K-State makes him the perfect candidate.
- Pep Rally Culture: The parade flows right into the pep rally — think speeches, band performances, dance teams, and the announcement of parade contest winners.
🗓️ Tips For Parade Day (Do’s & Don’ts)
- Arrive early: Some spots fill fast — especially along Poyntz and in Aggieville.
- Use public transit/walk: Downtown parking fills fast, so consider walking or ride-sharing.
- Bring a camera or phone with good zoom: You’ll want snapshots of floats, bands, and energy in motion.
- Hydrate & snack: There may be gaps between candy tosses — bring water and small snacks.
- Stay for the pep rally: The parade is just the start; the fun continues at the Larry Norvell Band Shell in City Park.
The 2025 KSU Homecoming Parade promises to be a vibrant, purple-soaked celebration of Wildcat pride, community camaraderie, and timeless tradition. Whether you’re along Poyntz, weaving through Aggieville, or cheering in City Park, you’re in for an evening of pageantry, energy, and memories.
