FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — Today begins a homecoming celebration for University of Arkansas students, alumni and local businesses.
Jimmy Cook is one of the managers of the Campus Bookstore.
“I’m glad the Hogs are back on the Hill,” Cook said.
He says this is their busiest time of the year, in the midst of homecoming celebrations.
“We’re very excited. It’s been a long month without a home game here in Fayetteville,” Cook said.
Cook says his work will be slow without the Hogs. “Sales here are being affected. When a team is out for a month, there’s no influx of people,” Cook said.
But when they’re in town, he says he sees a huge increase in energy and sales.
“We’ve already had a turnout this week. People are excited. They’re definitely ready to root for the Razorbacks,” Cook said.
Brandy Jackson is the executive director of the Arkansas Alumni Association.
“I think one of them is that homecoming has always been fundamental to the university,” Jackson said.
She said this is also a time for alumni and students to build relationships. As for the alumni event, she said more than 300 people are expected to attend.
“There’s going to be a festival at the mall. We’re going to have a pep rally. We’re going to have fireworks for the first time. We’re really looking forward to the 15-minute fireworks show and the boys basketball game,” Jackson said.
Kevin Trainor is a spokesperson for the University of Arkansas. The university said it expects more than 72,000 fans to attend Saturday’s game against Mississippi State. Combined with his more than 30,000 students on campus, Jackson says there’s more than enough event for everyone to enjoy.
“There are many options and opportunities for alumni to be active on campus and for students to be involved during this very special time,” Jackson said.