Homecoming Week 2016 at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette will crank up with the Allons Manger Food Truck Roundup.
Seven food trucks will sell a variety of fare, from barbecue to frozen custard. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 31, at the UL Lafayette Alumni Center, 600 E. St. Mary Blvd.
“Everyone loves food, so the food roundup is a great way to kick off Homecoming Week,” said Amanda Gary, event chair.
Vendors will be Blanchard’s BBQ, The Bus Stop, Buster’s Frozen Custard, Cacklin Hens, Kona Ice of Acadiana, Mad LuAnn’s, and Rice Kings. Adorn, a women’s boutique, will sell items such as jewelry and accessories.
The third-year event is a hit with students and faculty who walk or bike over from other places on campus, and employees of businesses in the nearby Oil Center, Gary said. Many attendees also drive from farther away. Parking will be available at the E.K. Long Gym lot or the Girard Park Circle parking garage.
Students who stop by will be able to enjoy free cupcakes. The University Program Council will hand them out, while they last, as part of its Cake Giveaway.
More than food will be on the menu during the roundup. The University’s Office of Career Services will team with One Acadiana to host Welcome Home Acadiana. A tent will be set up near the Alumni Center. Representatives of 10 local businesses will give career advice, distribute information, and accept résumés from University graduates.
“It’s an opportunity for young alums who are taking part in Homecoming activities to come to the Alumni Center and visit with potential employers in a casual atmosphere,” said Kim Billeaudeau, director of the Office of Career Services.
On Tuesday, Nov. 1, the UPC will host its popular karaoke contest. Students will sing and dance during the free event, which will be held at 7 p.m. at the Cajundome Convention Center. The public is invited to attend.
Groups of up to six students perform, although only one person per group can sing. Other team members dance, or conduct a routine that is related to the song, said Karli Sherman, UPC co-adviser.
Teams select songs from a list provided by the UPC in advance of the contest. Students often tweak lyrics in creative ways, dress in costumes, or perform a skit to express their Ragin’ Cajun pride.
“Judging is based on quality of the performance, creativity and how spirited team members are,” Sherman explained.
Judges select the top three performances. Finalists then each sing the same song, chosen by UPC Traditions Committee members, to determine a champion.
“The finalists won’t know what the song will be beforehand,” Sherman said.
Learn more about Homecoming 2016 events at louisiana.edu/homecoming.