Eagles Fly Home
October 22-25, 2026
Join us for a weekend of memories, camaraderie and Eagle pride. Whether you’re returning to relive your glory days or making new memories, Homecoming 2026 promises to be a celebration like no other. Mark your calendars now and follow us on social to stay up to date on the event planning and reunion updates.
Registration opens in August.
Virtual Events
Join us virtually!
Can’t make it back to campus? You can still celebrate Homecoming from wherever you are with our virtual events! It’s a great way to stay connected and show your BC spirit no matter the distance.
Coloring Contest
Tuesday, Sept. 1-Thursday, Oct. 19 | Virtual
Registration Details
We invite all artists, ages 2 and up, to participate in the Homecoming 2026 Coloring Contest. Download the printable coloring sheet, and get creative with crayons, markers or colored pencils! Email completed coloring sheets to homecoming@bridgewater.edu. Here are the full guidelines and additional details. Deadline for submission is Friday, October 16. Voting will be held on the Bridgewater College Alumni Facebook Page beginning Monday, October 19.
Funky 5K Run/1 Mile Walk
Tuesday, Sept. 15-Thursday, Oct. 15 | Virtual
Registration Details
We are celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the Funkhouser Wellness Center and this year’s 5K will be getting FUNKY! Register for the Funky 5K/1 Miler, complete it on your own time and email your finisher photos to alumnews@bridgewater.edu to win prizes! Get your four-legged furry companion, family and friends together to run, walk, trot or stroll through your town. We can’t wait to see your ‘Funky’ photos! Proceeds benefit the Eagle Fund (current-use scholarships).
Registration options:
Walk the Block: $25 (T-shirt, race bib, Funky1Miler sticker)
Friend of the Funk: $35 (T-shirt, race bib, and Funky5K sticker)
Champion of the Center: $50 (T-shirt, race bib, Funky5K Sticker and Magnetic Photo Frame)
Legacy Runner: $100 (T-shirt, race bib, Funky5K Sticker, Magnetic Photo Frame and Finisher Medal)
Virtual Spirit Week
Monday, October 19-Friday, October 23 | Bridgewater Alumni Social Media
Join in our virtual spirit week!
Whether you are traveling to campus or not, all alumni, family and friends are invited to get in the spirit with a special edition Homecoming virtual spirit week! There will be fun prizes and giveaways daily; the more you play, the more you WIN! One lucky winner who participates every day of the week will be selected to win a $50 Campus Store gift card. Follow us on socials to take part in the fun!
Here is the full spirit week schedule.
- Monday – Eagles Fly Home: Share your favorite Ernie mascot.
- Tuesday – Home Away From Home: Show us where you work.
- Wednesday – Home Run Wednesday: Share your participation in BC Athletics or academics
- Thursday – Home Sweet Home: Throwback Thursday, captioned with emojis only.
- Friday – Welcome Home Eagles: Selfie time! Show off that BC merch.
Mocktails & Mingling: Alumni & Student Networking Reception
3-4:30 p.m. Forrer Learning Commons, 2nd Floor/Class of 1969 Great Room
We are taking the ever-popular Career Connections Fair and rebranding it. Help students practice their networking skills in a relaxed environment- and relieve some anxiety around the networking process- by just talking about yourself! Students want to know about your career journey and how they might follow the same pathways. This is the perfect opportunity to share solicited advice and enjoy delicious refreshments all in one place. Feel free to bring your business cards to share with students. Not sure which school reception you should attend? No problem! We’ll guide you to the correct location based on your undergraduate major. All those who participate will receive a BC mouse pad and a Smitty’s coupon as a thank-you for volunteering.
Friday, October 23
Activities listed with a ⭐ are part of the Class of 1976’s 50th Reunion.
Activities listed with an (Eagle Head / X) will feature Ernie.
Activities with an asterisk (*) are by invitation for those who supported Ernie getting fit in 2026.
Eagles Golf Classic
10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Lakeview Golf Club; (4101 Shen Lake Drive, Harrisonburg, VA, 22802))
Event and registration details
Join the excitement on the green with us for the annual Eagles Golf Classic on Friday, October 23, 2026! Gather a group of friends for a round of golf to support BC Athletics. Register now »
⭐ Class of 1976 Registration
3:00-4:00 p.m. John Kenny Forrer Learning Commons, Entrance
Full event details
All attendees will receive a special 50th Reunion name badge and a copy of the Class of 1976 Memory Book.
⭐ Class of 1976 Campus Tour
4:00-5:30 p.m. John Kenny Forrer Learning Commons, Entrance
Full event details
See what’s new on campus! Depart from the Forrer Learning Commons (former Alexander Mack Library) with a visit to the Newlen-Bradford Special Collections for a behind-the-scenes tour of BC’s historical artifacts and a special display featuring our favorite feathered friend, Ernie! You’ll tour around campus and end at the Funkhouser Wellness Center to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the recreation center’s opening.
Friday Night at the Funk
5:00-8:30 p.m. The Funkhouser Wellness Center
Full event details
Celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Funkhouser Wellness Center with a self-guided tour of the facility!
⭐ Class of 1976 Gift Presentation
5:45-6:00 p.m. Forrer Learning Commons, Class of 1969 Great Room
Full event details
The Class of 1976 will present their class gift to Dr. David Bushman and celebrate the Eagle Fund.
Ernie through the Decades - with Special Collections Librarian Stephanie Gardner *
4:30-5:30 p.m. Newlen-Bradford Special Collections, Lower level of the Forrer Learning Commons
Full event details
*This event is by invitation only and open to those who supported Ernie getting fit in 2026. Take a trip down memory lane and learn about Ernie’s origin as well as his transformation through the decades.
X Private Meet and Greet with Ernie *
6:00-7:00 p.m. Boitnott Room, Kline Campus Center
Full event details
*This event is by invitation only and open to those who supported Ernie getting fit in 2026. Enjoy a drink on us as you get to see Ernie up close and personal with special presentation and guests: Sean Haniffee ’93 and Alumni Relations and Annual Giving Director, Tammy Steele ’99.
⭐ Class of 1976 Reception
6:00-8:00 p.m. Forrer Learning Commons, Class of 1969 Great Room
More details
Mix and mingle with classmates while enjoying drinks and heavy hors d’oeuvres with a special appearance by Ernie the Eagle! Cost: Beer and wine tickets $7 each; limit 2 per person.
Class of 1966 Reception
6:00-8:00 p.m. Bill Earhart’s home
More details
Enjoy time together with old friends. Address to be shared with final registration information.
Field Hockey vs. Roanoke College
7:00 p.m. Jopson Field
Game details
Cheer on the Eagles as they take on the Maroons to kick off your Homecoming weekend festivities. All are welcome, no ticket required.
Men’s Lacrosse Alumni Game
9:00-10:30 p.m. Jopson Field
Full event details
Dust off your sticks and get your Homecoming weekend started off right with a friendly matchup on your old stomping grounds. All Men’s Lacrosse are invited to participate or watch and cheer from the stands.
Saturday, October 24
Activities listed with a ⭐ are part of the Class of 1976’s 50th Reunion.
Activities listed with an (Eagle Head / X) will feature Ernie.
Activities with an asterisk (*) are by invitation for those who supported Ernie getting fit in 2026.
Early Bird Yoga
8:00-9:00 a.m. Funkhouser Wellness Center
Full event details
Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the opening of the Funk, as students call it, start your day with Yoga hosted by Provost Leona Sevick. Mats will be provided and registration required. Please note, a waiver will be signed upon check-in.
Homecoming Check-in and Alumni Information
9:00 a.m-1:00 p.m. Forrer Learning Commons, Entrance
Full event details
Register for reunions and other events, pick up your pre-registration tickets and update your contact information.
X Time Travel with Ernie: The Life and Legacy of Ernie the Eagle
9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Newlen-Bradford Special Collections, Lower level of the Forrer Learning Commons
Full event details
This new exhibit by Bridgewater College Special Collections showcases archival photographs and artifacts that explore the historic origins and changing styles of our beloved Bridgewater College mascot.
BCAA Breakfast
9:30-10:30 a.m. President’s House
Full event details
All current and former members and past presidents are invited to a breakfast with Dr. Bushman, and special guest Ernie, to kick off Homecoming Weekend.
Alumni Jazz Band Rehearsal
10:00-11:30 a.m. Carter Center Concert Hall, Stage
Full event details
All Jazz Alumni will be rehearsing for the Jazz Concert at 7:30 p.m. Pre-registration required-deadline is Friday, October 16; unfortunately, no walk-ups permitted. Attire: All Black or BC Jazz shirt.
Lunch on your own
10:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Kline Campus Center, Dining Hall
Full event details
Open to alumni, students and friends. Cash and credit card accepted; $14 per person.
⭐Class of 1976 Check-in
10:15-11:15 a.m. Boitnott Room, Kline Campus Center
Full event details
If you are joining us on Saturday only, please check-in prior to the events of the day. All attendees will receive a special 50th Reunion name badge and a copy of the Class of 1976 Memory Book.
⭐Class of 1976 Continental Breakfast
10:30-11:15 a.m. Boitnott Room, Kline Campus Center
Full event details
Join your classmates for a light breakfast and refreshments as you prepare for your reunion festivities. Cost: $10 per person.
G.O.L.D. Event: Muffins and Mimosas
10:30-11:30 a.m. Forrer Learning Commons Class of 1969 Great Room
Full event details
Calling all Graduates of the Last Decade (2016-2026)! Celebrate your G.O.L.D. status by joining us to start off your Homecoming festivities with muffins and mimosas. This year’s event is co-hosted by The Graduate Program who will be on hand to talk about the unique programs offered and give a special gift for all alumni in attendance. Cost: $10 per person.
Festival on the Mall
11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Campus Mall
Full event details
Join the BC community for bounce houses, trackless train, photo booth, spirit giveaways, fun food (Mr. J’s Bagels, Overlook Produce, PrePopsterous Popcorn, Smiley’s Ice Cream, Sugar and Bean Coffee, Tacos4Life Nachos, Valley Pretzels, etc.), a petting zoo and much more. All activities at the festival are free and open to all alumni, families and students.
The Funkhouser Wellness Center 25th Celebration Open House
11:00-2:00 p.m. Funkhouser Wellness Center
Full event details
We are celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Funk (as students like to call it) with self-guided tours. Stop by to see the recreational space students use for group exercise classes, intramurals and more! Did you work at the Funk during your time at BC? If so, stop by to pick up your commemorative gift.
Homecoming Tailgating
11:00 a.m. Mapp Field
Full event details
Tailgating closes one hour after the football game ends.
Field Hockey Alumni & Team Tailgate
11:00-2:00 p.m. Mapp Field
Full event details
Join Coach Emily Bagby for a fun afternoon of food, fellowship and Bridgewater Field Hockey! Enjoy appetizers and drinks, connect with current players, alumni and supporters of the program, and get ready for an exciting afternoon of Eagles football. Registration is required. Per Athletic Ticketing Policy, a game ticket is required to enter Mapp Field.
Golf Alumni Tailgate
11:00-2:00 p.m. Mapp Field, Spot 12
Full event details
Join Coach Nick Schlickenrieder for a fun afternoon of food, fellowship and Bridgewater Golf! Enjoy a catered lunch, connect with current players, alumni, parents and supporters of the program, and get ready for an exciting afternoon of Eagles football. Registration is required. Per Athletic Ticketing Policy, a game ticket is required to enter Mapp Field.
Reunion Row
11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Mapp Field, Reunion Row
Full event details
All classes in reunion are invited to the Reunion Row tent. Enjoy a delicious catered lunch from Hank’s BBQ and drinks from Feel the Rain Brothers Brew Co., Bluestone Vineyard and Cross Keys Vineyard. Per Athletic Ticketing policies a game ticket is required for entry.
Class of 2025-Alumni Class Challenge Winner!
11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Reunion Row
Full event details
The Class of 2025 stepped up and showed Eagle pride on our One Day. Every Eagle. day of giving with the most gifts per class. All members of the Class (and a guest) are invited to Reunion Row to enjoy a delicious catered lunch from Hank’s BBQ and drinks from Feel the Rain Brewing Co., Bluestone Vineyard and Cross Keys Vineyard. Game ticket required for entry.
⭐Class of 1976 Reunion Photo
11:15-11:30 a.m. Cole Hall Steps
Full event details
All Class of 1976 members are invited to participate in your 50th reunion class photo. Photo cost: $10 per person.
Reunion Photos
Beginning at 11:30 a.m.
Full event details
Photo cost: $10 per person.
Classes ending in 6: Cole Hall steps.*
11:30 a.m.-1946
11:40 a.m.-1956
11:50 a.m.-1966
Noon-1986
12:10 p.m.-1996
12:20 p.m.-2006
12:30 p.m.-2016
12:40 p.m.-2026
Classes ending in 1: Forrer Learning Commons (formerly Alexander Mack Library) steps.**
11:30 a.m.-1951
11:40 a.m.-1961
11:50 a.m.-1971
Noon-1981
12:10 p.m.-1991
12:20 p.m.-2001
12:30 p.m.-2011
12:40 p.m.-2021
*Rain Location: Classes ending in 6 inside steps of Cole Hall
**Rain Location: Classes ending in 1 inside steps of the Forrer Learning Commons.
Class of 1991 Gathering
11:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Bowman Hall Lobby
Full event details
All members of the Class of 1991 are invited to gather and visit before the class photo (at 12:10 p.m.-Forrer Learning Common Steps-formerly Alexander Mack
Library). After your photo, continue taking part in the festivities on the Mall or join your host Sally Jane Conner ‘91 on Mapp Field for some tailgating fun at Reunion Row (Located to the left of the entrance; look for the Reunion Row flags)
⭐Class of 1976 50th Reunion Induction
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Cole Hall
Full event details
We invite you to a special ceremony celebrating the Class of 1976 alumni who have reached the milestone of 50 years since graduation.
Donuts and Departments
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Campus Mall (Weather Location: KCC)
Full event details
Catch up with faculty from various departments while enjoying complimentary donuts from Overlook Produce, bagels from Mr. J’s Bagels and drinks provided by Sugar and Bean Café.
Class of 1981 Gathering
11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Forrer Learning Commons (formerly Alexander Mack Library) Patio
Full event details
All members of the Class of 1981 are invited to gather and visit before your class photo (at 12 p.m.). After your photo, continue taking part in the festivities on the Mall or join your classmates, Kathy Wright ’81, and John Dwyer ’81 on Mapp Field for some tailgating fun at Reunion Row (Located to the left of the entrance; look for the Reunion Row flags).
Women’s Soccer v. Lynchburg
12:00 p.m. Soccer Field
Full event details
Come cheer on the Lady Eagles! All are welcome, no ticket required.
X Welcome Ernie Home!
12:00 p.m. Campus Mall
More details
Help welcome Ernie home with our Homecoming Mall celebration.
X Photos with Ernie
12:00-1:00 p.m. HOME Letters on the Mall
Full event details
Ernie has gotten fit, his feathers are fluffed and his uniform is ready for action. Join us on the Mall to welcome him back home. The first 250 fans to meet and greet Ernie will receive a limited-edition T-shirt and photo op with Ernie!
Sips and Softball
12:00-1:00 p.m. Softball Field
Full event details
Come meet the new Softball coach and see the unveiling of Phase 1 renovations to the stadium. Light refreshments and mocktails will be served.
Ripples Luncheon
12:30 p.m.-2:00 p.m. Boitnott Room, Kline Campus Center
Full event details
Alumni from the Class of 1975 and earlier are invited to reconnect with classmates and celebrate Homecoming at this festive luncheon. You’ll hear from Dr. Barbara Long, Dean for the Nolen School of Business and Professional Studies, on what’s happening in the school and programs. Cost: $15 per person.
Screamin’ Eagles Alumni Band
1:30 p.m. Carter Room 1
Full event details
All members of the Screamin’ Eagles alumni band are invited to perform in the stands during the Homecoming game. All members will meet Dr. Christine Carrillo in the band room. Music will be emailed upon registration. Attire: BC gear or Marching/Pep band t-shirt.
X Ernie Brings in the Game Ball
1:30 p.m. Jopson Field
Full event details
Ernie has been working hard to get FIT in 2026 and he’s ready to bring the game ball to Jopson Field! Get ready to cheer on Ernie as he runs through his fan tunnel which includes members of the Class of 2026 (whose class gift was the Ernie Fund), the BC Cheerleading Team and Screamin’ Eagles Marching Band!
Class of 2026 alumni, don’t miss out on the fun! Make a gift of at least $10 to participate in the on-field experience. (GIFT NOW)
Those participating in the fan tunnel will receive an email with instructions from Alumni Relations the week of Homecoming.
Football: BC vs. Shenandoah
2:00 p.m. Jopson Field
Full event details
Pre-ordered football tickets may be picked up at registration on Saturday. Tickets may also be purchased at the gate on game day (while supplies last). No pets or umbrellas allowed in the stadium. $11 per person / $9 senior ticket / $7 children 6-12 / 5 and under FREE. All sales final. CREDIT CARD ONLY!
Classes in reunion can join Reunion Row beginning at 11 a.m. on Mapp Field complete with your favorite tailgate snacks and drinks. Football ticket will allow you and your guest entry onto Mapp Field. Mapp Field closes one hour after the game concludes.
Men’s Soccer v. Hampden-Sydney
4:00 p.m. Soccer Field
Full event details
Come cheer on the Eagles! All are welcome, no ticket required.
⭐Class of 1976 After Party
6:00-10:00 p.m. The Alpine Goat Brewery (212 Chapel Hill Lane, Weyers Cave, VA 24486)
Full event details
Join your fellow classmates for a special after Homecoming gathering. Enjoy music by Standing Room Only, with our very own Bill Kyger performing. An assortment of appetizers (Veggie, Cheese and Cracker platter, Italian and Chicken Salad Sliders, Pimento Cheese with Pita Chips, Deviled Eggs, Meatballs, Spinach Artichoke Dip, Assorted Cookies, Bars and Brownies) will be provided by Dayton Catering, Co. Drink purchases available at the venue. Casual attire. Cost: $30/per person.
Class of 1986 Gathering
5:00-9:00 p.m. Bluestone Vineyard (4828 Spring Creek Rd, Bridgewater, VA, 22812)
Full event details
All members from the Class of 1986 are invited to Bluestone for wine (purchases paid individually). Gather again to reminisce about life 40 years after BC and take in the breathtaking views of the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. This event is hosted by Brad & Karla Hallock ‘86.
Class of 2001 Gathering
5:00-9:00 p.m. Francesco’s Italian Restaurant (101 N Main Street, Bridgewater, VA, 22812)
Full event details
All members from the Class of 2001 are invited to Francesco’s for a relaxed dinner with friends. You can choose from a wide menu of pizza, pasta, subs and salads (purchases paid individually) while visiting with your fellow classmates. Christina Rigney Myers ’01, your host, will have tables reserved for those in attendance.
Class of 2011 Gathering
6:00-8:00 p.m. Feel the Rain Brothers Brew Co. (800 N Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA, 22802)
Full event details
All members from the Class of 2011 are invited to a BC alumni-owned business, Feel the Rain Brothers Brew Co. to continue the celebration! Enjoy a signature beer while reminiscing about life 15 years after BC (purchases paid individually). This event is hosted by Theresa Bell Mohr ‘11.
Class of 2021 Gathering
5:00-9:00 p.m. The Cracked Pillar (403 N Main Street, Bridgewater, VA, 22812)
Full event details
All members from the Class of 2021 are invited to The Cracked Pillar Outdoor Pavilion for drinks and appetizers (purchases paid individually). Gather after the game to continue catching up on what’s been happening in your lives since graduating from BC. This event is hosted by Grace Fotis ’21 and Lexi Brown ‘21.
Class of 2026 Gathering
5:00-7:00 p.m. The Cracked Pillar (403 N Main Street, Bridgewater, VA, 22812)
Full event details
All members from the Class of 2026 are invited to The Cracked Pillar Outdoor Pavilion for drinks and appetizers (purchases paid individually). Gather after the game to continue catching up on what’s been happening in your lives since graduating from BC. This event is hosted by Kris Schultz ‘26.
Homecoming Concert: featuring BC Choirs and Jazz Ensembles
7:30 p.m. Carter Center for Worship and Music, Concert Hall
Full event details
Join us for an evening of music showcasing the talents of Bridgewater College students and BC jazz alumni. This free event is open to all!
Sunday, October 25
Activities listed with a ⭐ are part of the Class of 1976’s 50th Reunion.
⭐Class of 1976 Farewell Brunch
10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Kline Campus Center, Main Dining Hall
Full event details
Close out your 50th reunion weekend with lunch in the main dining hall.
Pre-purchased tickets requested. Cost: $14 per person.
Tennis Alumni Match
10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Mapp-Whitelow Tennis Courts
Full event details
All Tennis alumni are invited to participate in a fall alumni match.
Smitty's Cafe
Forrer Learning Commons
Friday, Oct. 23: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 24: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Cash and credit card accepted.
Campus Store
Cole Hall
Friday, Oct. 23: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 24: 10 a.m. to the end of the 3rd quarter
Cash and credit card accepted.
Kline Campus Center Dining
Saturday, Oct. 24: 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Lunch on your own.
Sunday, Oct. 25: 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Brunch.
Open to alumni, family and friends; $14 per person.
Homecoming Weekend FAQs
Bridgewater College Homecoming and Reunion activities will be held on campus October 22-25, 2026. Classes ending in 1 and 6 are invited to special events for Homecoming.
Registration will open mid-August 2026.
Homecoming registration will be held in the Forrer Learning Commons (formerly Alexander Mack Library) on Saturday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Please see attached updated Parking Map.
For additional information about campus maps and directions, please visit our Campus Map, Parking and Driving Directions webpage.
Yes, please see additional information about tailgating.
Yes, a game ticket is required to access tailgating at Mapp Field and/or Reunion Row. You can purchase the ticket through your Homecoming registration.
The Bridgewater College Campus Store will be open Friday, October 23 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday, October 24 from 10 a.m. to the end of the 3rd quarter of the football game.
Keeping your address, phone, email and LinkedIn information up to date with BC is essential to staying involved. Update your contact information online now.
Yes, visit this custom Google map to view restaurants, stores and more.
There are many hotel options in Harrisonburg and the surrounding area. It will be a busy weekend in the Valley, so make your reservations early!
| Benefits | Gold Tier | Crimson Tier |
|---|---|---|
| Exclusive Event Listing on Homecoming website | ✔ | X |
| Inclusion in Homecoming marketing emails | ✔ | ✔ |
| Inclusion in Reunion Row Festivities (ONLY for classes in Reunion) | ✔ | ✔ |
| Assistance in booking football tickets | ✔ | ✔ |
| Assistance in securing hotel accommodations | ✔ | ✔ |
| Access to Homecoming marketing and event planning toolkits | ✔ | ✔ |
| Decorations provided: table tents, poms, bead necklaces & stickers | ✔ | ✔ |
| Social Media posts created and scheduled on Class FB pages as well as Alumni Socials (FB and IG) | ✔ | X |
| Social Media posts created that you can share on your personal social accounts, tagging #bcvaalum | X | ✔ |
| Deadlines for Event Support | Gold Tier: Submission by July 1 | Crimson Tier: Submission by August 1 |
