Start of homecoming celebration
The pavilion was filled with music and students as homecoming candidates passed out candy and food encouraging votes.
The smell of popcorn lingered in the air and students ate pizza while the first of many homecoming events and traditions took place.
The Homecoming Kick Off was celebrated on Monday, Oct. 10, at the Pavilion with face painting, balloon animals and art, a photo booth, music and more for students to enjoy.
The start of homecoming week signifies the many traditions students can expect throughout the week, including the bonfire, Hog Call, talent show, concert, fall carnival, the Javelina homecoming football game and the coveted crowning of homecoming king and queen.
CAB President Carmela Martinez says her favorite Javelina tradition is the annual fall carnival, even when she’s running the event.
“I like Fall Carnival because you see everybody on campus participate, whether it’s working a booth, buying food or the community joining in, so I really like it because you get maximum participation,” she said
Sophomore kinesiology major Analysa Munoz was tabling for homecoming queen during the kickoff event.
“It’s exciting and nervous at the same time, but I’m glad to be able to [have] this opportunity to get my name out there and just experience the whole thing. It’s a very exciting opportunity for everyone to run,” she said.
Munoz’s favorite part of homecoming includes tailgating and the Javelina football game.
Several candidates made their appearance during the event tabling with candy and even breakfast sandwiches in hopes of swaying students for their vote.
“I decided to run for homecoming king to support the College of Agriculture and more specifically the collegiate FFA. We’re kind of a small organization that needs support and representation, and I figured running for homecoming king would give them just that,” junior Agriculture Science major Daniel Cavazos said.
His favorite part of the annual event was meeting new people and seeing students show support. Cavazos looks forward to supporting the Javelina football team during the homecoming game.
While many students look forward to experiencing the traditions for another year, they see each year Texas A&M University-Kingsville is home to many freshmen, who have yet to witness the Javelina traditions that take place during the week.
Freshman Animal Science major Justice Reed attended this year’s kickoff and was excited to experience her first Javelina homecoming week.
“I’m so excited for the football game,” she said.
Reed also looks forward to the social events throughout the week and said the bonfire would be her favorite event of the week.
