TAHLEQUAH — Homecoming week features a full slate of events for Northeastern State University students past and present. The week includes events, concerts and gatherings for university alumni and students.

“I think homecoming is the most exciting time on NSU’s campus and thinking I had a little part in that is very rewarding,” said Rachel Lynn, Student Homecoming Committee marketing chairperson.

Kicking off student activities Monday was “Paint the Town Green,” a contest where student organizations decorate shop front windows along Muskogee Avenue to match the year’s homecoming theme. These window paintings were judged during the evening street party and chili cook-off on Muskogee Avenue.

Northeastern Activities Board will host an open-mic night at 7 p.m. today where students will display their talents in the NSU Jazz Lab.

Elections for homecoming court will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday in the University Center lobby. Also on Wednesday, NAB will host a concert in the center’s circle drive from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a corresponding pre-float ice cream party.

A new addition to the week’s activities will be a Shack-a-thon from 8 p.m. to midnight Wednesday at the gazebo behind Seminary Hall. Organizations will build shacks and reside in them to increase awareness of homelessness and raise money for Habitat for Humanity.

Campaigning and voting for homecoming court will continue from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday at the University Center followed by a dedication ceremony of the new NSU Playhouse mural, “Ascending,” to be conducted by NSU professor Lance Hunter at 3:30 p.m.

A new addition also has been made to the bonfire and pep rally event from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday on Beta Field.

“This year we’ve added a ‘Hawk-dog’ eating contest to the activities at the bonfire,” Lynn said.

Hotdogs, music and a special appearance by the NSU RiverHawks will accompany the lighting of the bonfire.

The NSU Homecoming parade will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday on Muskogee Avenue and feature floats designed around the theme, “Growing Into Our Second Century.”

A tailgating party will begin at noon at Doc Wadley Stadium and will feature grilled offerings from student organizations and the NSU Best Dance Crew competition.

The week will conclude as the NSU RiverHawks take the field against Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Doc Wadley stadium at 3 p.m. Saturday.

“The theme is encouraging NSU faculty and staff to look forward to the future,” Lynn said. “As our society grows into the future, we like to think that NSU students will have a significant impact on our world.”