This weekend is homecoming for the University of Massachusetts. The weekend festivities will feature many activities across campus highlighting the UMass football team’s game against Maine.

“Homecoming is a time to celebrate the work of the current students and faculty,” said Chancellor John V. Lombardi.

Events will welcome alumni and friends of the University back to the campus, as well as including students and faculty in the ongoing activities. Homecoming is a chance to get back together with friends, alumni and students, according to Jennifer Arsenault, associate director for alumni communications.

“Homecoming is a time for alumni and students to be excited about their alma mater,” said Arsenault.

Lombardi called Homecoming weekend both celebratory and serious. “We’re doing great things and we’re proud of them,” said Lombardi. “I think Homecoming is a great time for any university. It is one of the high points of the year.”

This years events include the following:

Fri.:

The Chancellor’s Medal Award Luncheon (by invitation only) is from 11:30-2:00 p.m. in the Campus Center to honor alumni, faculty and friends.

The Engineering Research Showcase and Laboratory Tour is from 2-3:30 p.m. at the Gunness Student Center in Marcus Hall.

To celebrate the completion of the Harold Alfond Management Center there will be a dedication ceremony at 3 p.m., celebrating the completion of the facility and includes refreshments, student tours and presentations.

UMass Women’s soccer will face the La Salle Women at 3 p.m. on Rudd Field.

UMass Field Hockey opposes University of Richmond at 7 p.m. on Garber Field.

The 28th Annual Multiband Pops Concert is at 8 p.m. in the Fine Arts Center and is produced by Jeffrey Holmes. For ticket information call 545-2511.

The Alumni Band Reception is at 10 p.m. in the Student Union Ballroom. To register for the event, visit www.ummbalumni.org.

Sat.:

The Alumni Band Breakfast is at 8 a.m. in the Student Union Ballroom. To register for the event, visit www.ummbalumni.org.

The Chancellor’s Breakfast (by invitation only) is from 9-10:30 a.m. at Hillside where Chancellor John V. Lombardi and Mrs. Cathryn Lombardi recognize members of the University’s donor societies for their generous support.

The ROTC Open House is 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Building 79 (next to Boyden Gym). Call Major Sharon Bucciarelli at 545-2321 for more information.

The Isenberg School of Management’s Harold Alfond Management Center Open House is at 10 a.m. For information, call Ericka Prew at 545-5603.

The Communications Department Open House is 10-11:00 a.m. in 120 South College (TV Studio, across from the DuBois Library) and includes a dedication of the TV Studio in memory of Ed O’Neill. For information call Department Chair Michael Morgan at 545-1311.

The School of Nursing Reunion Luncheon and Presentation is from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in the Cape Cod Lounge of the Student Union Building. The reunion presentation is “Partnerships in Practice” with featured keynote speakers. For information contact SON Development 545-1766 or [email protected].

The Homecoming Park/MinuteFan Park is open from 10:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. at the Warren P. McGuirk Alumni Stadium. The event is co-sponsored by UMass Athletics and the Alumni Association and includes live entertainment and face painting.

The Dedication of the Class of 1950, a new minutemen statue will be held at 10:45 a.m. at the Campus Center pond lawn.

The Class of 1977 25th Reunion Lunch is from 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m. at the Warren P. McGuirk Alumni Stadium. For registration information call (800) 456-8627 or visit www.UMassAlumni.com.

Alumni Association Lunch at Homecoming Park/MinuteFan Park is 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m. at the Warren P. McGuirk Alumni Stadium. Bring your Association membership card.

Athletic Fund Pre-Game Tailgate (by invitation only) is at the Warren P. McGuirk Alumni Stadium, SW corner, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Alumni Band Pre-Game Barbeque is at 11:30 a.m. at the Warren P. McGuirk Alumni Stadium. To register for the event, visit www.ummbalumni.org.

The Fraternity Barbeque is at noon at 118 Sunset Avenue. Alpha Sigma Phi, Sigma Epsilon and Delta Chi alumni are invited. For information contact Jason Fossella at [email protected].

The UMass — Maine football game is at 1 p.m. at Warren P. McGuirk Stadium. For tickets call 545-0810.

The post-game reception for George N. Parks 25th Anniversary will be held in the Student Union Ballroom following the game. Massachusetts Minuteman Band alumni will honor Parks for his many years with the band. Pre-registration for the event is required and can be done at www.ummbalumni.org.

The Young Alumni Gathering is from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Charlie’s in Amherst.

Sun.

Women’s soccer will face off against Fordham at 1 p.m. on Rudd Field.

The Massachusetts hockey team will play the Boston College Eagles at 5 p.m. in the Mullins Center. Tickets are available.