By Chloe Rehmert

2024 Homecoming is fast approaching. This year’s events, themed “Dance the Knight Away,” will be held on campus October 17-20. Fourth-year student Kathryn Christy, Executive Director of Homecoming Committee, talked more about the significance of this theme. 

“Music and dance have a unique power to bring people together. They help us connect on a deeper level,” Christy stated. “The idea is that we are bridging the past and the present to continue curating the Wartburg community we call home.” 

This year, homecoming will host a variety of Wartburg traditions, such as a parade, Renaissance Faire, Kastle Kapers, Oktoberfest and Sunday Homecoming worship. Student-oriented events will also be hosted, such as Knight’s Nite and several raffles.  

Returning students are excited to participate in upcoming events. Kate Heithoff, a third–year elementary education student, shared the most memorable part of last year’s event. 

“My favorite part of homecoming last year is honestly Kastle Kapers,” Heithoff said. “I performed with Rosenchor, a smaller auditioned ensemble off of the St. Elizabeth Chorale, and we sang Mr. Sandman.”  

Homecoming is also a great time for alumni to visit campus and connect with current students. Maia Abrahamson, parade executive of the committee, explained how impactful the event is for alumni.  

“Both of my parents are alumni, and my older sister graduated in 2022,” Abrahamson said. “They’re so thrilled to come back. Not only because I’m still here, but they would come back no matter what. They love the Wartburg community and they love coming back for that.”  

Homecoming would not be possible without the dedicated work of the homecoming committee. Christy explained how her role has affected her academic schedule.  

“It has evolved me to be even more mindful of how I’m using me time so that I’m still completing all my assignments, completing everything I need to do for my activities including homecoming, and getting a decent amount of sleep,” Christy stated.  

However, both Christy and Abrahamson noted that the hard work paid off during the event.

“Seeing people enjoy their time is so worth it. Just being able to make that experience memorable for somebody is really impactful,” Abrahamson said.  

Students interested in joining the Homecoming committee for the 2025 event can sign up at the Involvement Fair next year, as well as watch The Juice updates. Information about executive positions will be announced in January. 

For students who are experiencing homecoming for the first time this year, it is highly encouraged to participate in every event. 

“Go to every single event. They’re all super fun. Each one is so different, so just go experience it,” Heithoff said. 

“We see students having the ability to connect with alumni, faculty, to connect with families of their students, and really seeing a variety of connections and the larger Wartburg community continuing to circle and form,” Christy stated. 

Families can register for Homecoming activities and view the weekend’s schedule on the website, www.wartburg.edu/homecoming. Students can follow Homecoming updates through The Juice, as well as through the event’s social media, Wartburg Homecoming on both Facebook and Instagram.