CSU’s annual Homecoming Parade has a (somewhat) new route and a (really big) new end point for 2017

The parade, which includes more than 80 entries and is led by the CSU Marching Band, begins in its traditional launch site at 4:30 p.m. Friday at the corner of Oak and Howes streets. And, as in the past, it marches south on Howes and enters campus via the famed Oval.

Parade ends at new stadium

That’s where things get interesting. With construction at the Warner College of Natural Resources closing a portion of University Avenue, the 2107 parade will exit the Oval at the southwest corner, wind its way through the Lory Student Center plaza and then connect with University Avenue heading west to Meridian Avenue.

The parade will head south on Meridian before ending at the new stadium – a first in Homecoming Parade history.

The Grand Marshals of this year’s parade will be the President’s Commission on Women and Gender Equity, which is celebrating its 20th year on campus.

Parking, closures

The west side of the Oval the west side of Meridian will be closed to parking, as will the far west side of the Morgan Library parking lot.

After parade, the fun’s just beginning

Parade viewers can enjoy Festival on the Oval before, during and after the parade. After that, head to the LSC for food, fireworks and the annual homecoming bonfire at Friday Night Lights.

Road closures and parking news on and around the parade route can be found on the City of Fort Collins website.