September 18, 2025
Ferris State Homecoming weekend features the parade debut of the revitalized marching band and much more
With drums pounding and horns blazing, Ferris State University’s newly revitalized marching band will make its long-anticipated parade debut during a Homecoming weekend bursting with Bulldog pride, tradition, and fresh excitement for the future.
The celebration begins Thursday and builds to a high-energy crescendo on Saturday, Sept. 20, as the top-ranked Ferris State Bulldogs take on the University of Rio Grande of Ohio in the Homecoming football game at Top Taggart Field, with kickoff set for 3 p.m.
But before the first whistle blows, the streets of Big Rapids will come alive with the annual Homecoming Parade, stepping off at 10:30 a.m. from Big Rapids Middle School, 500 N. Warren Ave., and making its way through downtown to the Big Rapids Community Library, 426 S. Michigan Ave.
The return of the Ferris State marching band marks a proud new chapter in Bulldog history. Known for its powerful performances—including a national appearance at President Richard Nixon’s 1973 Inauguration Parade—the band is back and already energizing campus with appearances at two football games and a spirited Bulldog Welcome for new students in August.
Also making its Homecoming parade debut is Ferris State’s new Cheer and STUNT team, the university’s latest varsity sport. The 40-student team has already been turning heads at football games and will compete in STUNT competitions this coming spring.
The parade will also feature the Big Rapids High School band, along with a strong showing from Ferris student organizations, campus departments, and community groups.
This year’s Homecoming Grand Marshals are Dr. Bob Buckingham and Kim Buckingham, passionate alumni and long-time champions of Ferris State students and athletics.
Bob earned his Doctor of Optometry degree in 1981 and Kim graduated in 1980 with a degree in Optometric Technology—both from the Michigan College of Optometry. After serving in the U.S. Air Force, Bob and Kim lived across the country while raising their family and leading in national professional organizations.
Since returning to Big Rapids in 2001, they’ve become deeply involved in student support, athletics, and alumni engagement. Bob now serves as an adjunct faculty member in the Michigan College of Optometry, while Kim plays a key role with the Ferris Alumni Association in University Advancement and Marketing.
Adding a unique flair to this year’s festivities, Brutus the Bulldog will sport a custom Stormy Kromer cap and jacket—a nod to Ferris State’s partnership with the iconic Upper Peninsula brand. Special edition caps featuring the Bulldog logo will be available at the Stormy Kromer tent during Saturday’s pregame tailgate.
Twenty dollars from each sale will go directly to support the Ferris Alumni Association’s Legacy Scholarship, helping the next generation of Bulldogs thrive.
Thursday kicks off with a fall reunion hosted by the Ferris State Alumni Association, honoring the Class of 1975. Meanwhile, current students can enjoy the “Wild About Ferris” variety show featuring cast members from Wild ‘n Out at the Williams Auditorium.
On Friday, the Black Alumni Association invites visitors to take self-guided tours of the powerful Jim Crow Museum, located in FLITE, from 12–5 p.m.
The afternoon also features a full slate of Bulldog athletics, with the soccer team facing Davenport University at 1 p.m. on Friday, and the volleyball meeting Michigan Tech University on Friday at 5 p.m. and Northern Michigan University at 10 a.m. on Saturday.
Friday night concludes with the always popular pep rally bonfire at 8 p.m. near the South Athletic Fields across from the Rock Café, complete with live-band karaoke, food trucks, and games.
Information about all Homecoming activities is available here.