The DU Programming Board kicked off homecoming weekend last Friday, Oct. 18, with DU Palooza.

The warm weather many hoped would stay through homecoming weekend was replaced with an ominous set of rain clouds. After a quick change of locations to Community Commons, the festivities began with a performance from a DU student band, The End All. 

The fast-paced set, the band’s overall loudness and the energy from members were a perfect way to hype up the audience for the events to follow. 

Just beyond the stage, the first floor of the Commons was filled with activities for students, alumni and families to explore. From pumpkin painting, sitting in a spiritual ball pit or posing in a photobooth, there was something for everyone. 

Gianna Bierman, a first-year, attended this year’s events with parents Chris and Lori Bierman. The couple drove 10 hours from Dallas, Texas, to join their only daughter for homecoming weekend. 

The daunting feeling that comes with starting college far from home is something most DU students can relate to. With the fall quarter being halfway through, that feeling is fleeting for this freshman. 

“Everyone I’ve met has been super nice,” Bierman said. “I met my core group of friends during orientation week.”

The kindness shown from the DU community is something performer Talitha Boyd experienced firsthand on Friday. 

Following The End All, Boyd took the stage with nothing but a guitar in her hand. The first-year is no stranger to live performances, but this was her first time singing at a DU event.

“The school community is very supportive compared to a crowd of strangers,” Boyd said. “It was fun despite some hiccups.”

Boyd performed a series of folk covers and originals. The raw emotion in her voice mixed with the performer’s fondness of sad music matched perfectly as the initial drops of a rain shower fell. 

If attendees were brave enough to face the cold, just outside Community Commons on Campus Green was axe throwing, a Dryvebox and a line of food trucks. 

Most seeking shelter from the rain came inside just in time for the next act, Skintight Outrage. 

Having been confined to Lindsay Auditorium on Wednesday nights, the change in scenery was exciting for DU’s improv group. The group played multiple games before finishing their set by smashing a piñata.

As hands reached for the candy, Brown Boots reached for their instruments. The Bluegrass band closed the night out with their signature energetic sound— leaving everyone excited for the Men’s Ice Hockey game vs. Northeastern.