Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and following guidance from local and state officials, Dakota Wesleyan University has decided to cancel this year’s Blue & White Days homecoming parade.
Instead DWU will be offering something different for community members as an alternative to the traditional homecoming parade. Members of the Mitchell community are encouraged to participate in what will be referred to as a ‘Spirit Cruise.’
Community members are encouraged to drive by the DWU campus during the week of Blue & White Days, Monday-Saturday, Sept. 21 – Sept. 26, 2020. The university will be widely decorated during homecoming week, and the spirit cruise is an opportunity to participate in a Wesleyan pride ride.
The route will make a loop around campus utilizing the following streets: McCabe Street, W. University Avenue, Norway Avenue, S. Duff Street, Andrews Street and circling the cul-de-sac back on to McGovern Avenue. For more information and to view the campus map with the route visit www.dwu.edu/bwdays.
DWU clubs, organizations, departments and athletic teams will decorate sections of campus along the route – similar to decorating a float for the parade.
Members of the Mitchell community are also encouraged to decorate their home or business. Whether it is a business front, driveway or sidewalk at home, or neighborhood, Mitchell residents and business owners are invited to join in the fun. A prize will be awarded for ‘best spirit’ to one residential community member or family, as well as one local business. To participate, take a photo of your decorations at your business or home and post to social media using the hashtag #DWUCruise2020. Winners will be selected following the Sunday of Blue & White Days.
Additionally, the DWU CHAOS student science club will be going around the community again this year offering to paint Tiger head logos on sidewalks, driveways and business fronts. Visit https://store.dwu.edu/Chaos/ for more information.
“We’re excited that we can offer the community something different this year and still keep the Wesleyan spirit alive despite the cancelation of the traditional parade,” said Jan Larson, director of marketing and communications at DWU. “The ‘spirit cruise’ is a safe alternative and something a little fun for area families to do while still celebrating DWU’s annual Blue & White Days.”
Additional information regarding specific Blue & White Days events will be forthcoming.