By Ella Brown
By now you probably know that this upcoming weekend is The Weekend here on Bison Hill! If you’re new to campus traditions, The Weekend is OBU’s annual homecoming celebration — a combination of Bison Day and Family Weekend rolled into one.
It’s a time for students, prospective students, families, friends, and alumni to come together and celebrate life on Bison Hill. Whether you’re here for the games, the reunions, or the food, there’s something for everyone.
While events kick off on Thursday, October 23, here’s a guide to everything happening Saturday, October 25.
Morning Events
Weekend Registration Hub — 8:30 a.m., Lower GC
Start your day at the registration hub! Guests can check in, pick up name tags, grab some free OBU goodies, and connect with alumni, families, and friends. Staff will be on hand to answer questions and help direct visitors around campus.
Family Weekend Worship and Fellowship — 9:00 a.m., Upper GC (Rooms 219 & 220)
Gather for worship to start your Saturday on the right foot. Enjoy breakfast, coffee, juice, and water while hearing updates from OBU’s Student Ministry and Discipleship teams.
Following worship, President Heath Thomas will deliver a preview of his Shape the Future address. Registration is required.
Frankenstein Escape Room — 10:00 a.m., Stavros Hall
Step into a fun and spooky adventure hosted by OBU’s nursing program! This family-friendly escape room (recommended for ages 10 and up) gives visitors a glimpse into the nursing labs. Space is limited and registration is required.
Late Morning Events
“Beyond the Hill” — 10:30 a.m., Mabee Learning Center
Hosted by the Division of Behavioral Sciences, this event connects alumni and students for conversations about life after graduation across a variety of professions. No registration required.
Residential Halls Open House — 10:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Take a tour of WMU, Kerr, and Agee residence centers. Faculty and staff will be available at each location to give tours, answer questions, and share stories. Open to all, no registration required.
Shape the Future Campaign Address — 10:30 a.m., Upper GC (Rooms 219 & 220)
President Thomas will give an in-depth look at the Shape the Future campaign and share ways the OBU community can get involved. No registration required.
Midday Events
Bison Day — 11:00 a.m., Shawnee Hall
A highlight of The Weekend, Bison Day gives prospective students and their families a true taste of life at OBU. Visitors will enjoy campus tours, student panels, and lunch on the Oval, followed by the homecoming football game. Pre-registration required.
Bison U Planetarium Adventures — 11:00 a.m. & 3:00 p.m., Planetarium (1st Floor)
Explore the night sky and learn how to spot stars and constellations anywhere! This event is great for families and kids. Limited to 24 guests per session; pre-registration required.
Art on the Hill Festival — 12:00–3:00 p.m., The Oval
Stroll the Oval and enjoy local art, crafts, and goods from OBU alumni and community vendors. A great way to support small and local businesses! Open to all.
BBQ on the Oval: Alumni Decade Reunions & Family Weekend — 12:00 p.m., Upper and Lower GC
Join current students, alumni, and families for barbecue, live music, and fun. The Kids’ Zone will feature games, inflatables, and face painting.
Students may use meal swipes; guests must pre-register and purchase tickets.
Afternoon Events
Campus Open House Tours — 1:00–3:00 p.m.
Visit OBU’s renovated spaces, including Shawnee Hall, Thurmond Hall, Wood Science Building, Sarkeys Center, and Bailey Business Center. Stavros Hall will also host nursing simulation tours. No registration required.
Bison U Business Experience: “From Hype to Impact: How AI is Reshaping the Business Landscape” — 2:00 p.m., Bailey Business Center
Learn how OBU business students are using artificial intelligence to transform modern business practices. Pre-registration required.
Nursing Reunion — 2:00 p.m., Stavros Hall
Nursing alumni are invited to reconnect with former classmates, faculty, and current students at this casual come-and-go event. No registration required.
Residential Life Staff Reunion — 2:00 p.m., Lower GC Gathering Room
Current and former Res Life staff can catch up, share memories, and enjoy snacks and tours. Pre-registration required.
Evening Events
Bison Bash Tailgate — 4:00 p.m., Recreation and Wellness Center
Get ready for the big game with food, games, giveaways, and performances by the OBU Marching Band, cheer team, and Shaz! Open to all; no registration required.
Homecoming Football Game — 6:00 p.m., Crain Family Stadium
Cheer on Bison Football as they take on Southeastern Oklahoma State University! Celebrate the crowning of the Harvest King and Queen and enjoy a fireworks show at halftime. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
Join the Celebration!
There truly is something for everyone during The Weekend on Bison Hill — from alumni reunions to student showcases, worship to football, art to adventure. So bring your friends, your family, and your school spirit, and help us make this year’s celebration one to remember!
