Homecoming has been a tradition since 1933. The first Homecoming football game was held in 1934, and there has been a game every year since — save for the years between 1941 and 1946, during which Homecoming paused for the duration of World War II.
Some years, students were given booklets that included a schedule of the week’s myriad events. During early football games, “yell leaders” elected by the student body would boost enthusiasm by leading cheers, the lyrics to which could also be found in the booklet.
Various annual traditions evolved over time from this school-wide event. The parade is an old staple, including club floats, high school marching bands, and the occasional calliope. Sometimes a real horse rode among its ranks. Homecoming week also had its own era-specific events. For example, an Arnold Schwarzenegger look-alike contest was held in the early 90s. Originally a powderpuff football game, the “Toilet Bowl” evolved into a co-ed game of flag football for amateur Boise State students.
Other notable traditions included the “Burning of the B” on Table Rock and the King Beard Contest. The parading and burning of a twenty-foot tall effigy of Elmer, Boise State’s first iteration of the bronco mascot took place annually for several years. Students participated in greased pole climbing contests, pie-eating contests, tricycle races, turtle races, and pig wrestling. The Homecoming Committee organized all events.
A Homecoming Dance also took place annually. ASBSU voted on the theme every year, which ranged from “Wild West” to “Sitting of Top of the World.”
Written by Rachel Taylor, Summer 2019 intern