Three Days, One Bison Family: The Weekend Returns to OBU Oct. 1-3

Oklahoma Baptist University will welcome alumni, students, families and friends back to Bison Hill Oct. 1-3 for The Weekend 2026, the university’s annual celebration combining Homecoming, Family Weekend and Bison Day.

The three-day event will feature academic programs, alumni gatherings, campus traditions and athletic competition as the OBU community reconnects and celebrates life on Bison Hill.

“The Weekend is one of the most meaningful times of the year at OBU because it brings together generations of Bison to celebrate our shared experiences and continued connection to the university,” said Lea Ann Quirk, executive director of the OBU Alumni Association. “Whether you are returning for a reunion, visiting with former classmates, supporting current students or experiencing campus for the first time, there is something for everyone.”

Activities begin Thursday, Oct. 1, with an Oklahoma Baptists conference in the Recreation and Wellness Center. The conference is expected to draw 400 to 500 participants from across the state. That evening, Women of Vision will host its annual gathering in the Geiger Center.

Events continue Friday, Oct. 2, with chapel, Alumni Focus, recognition of the university’s 50-Plus Club, Bison Day activities, the annual Harvest Dinner, the Bison pep rally and the traditional ice cream social.

Saturday’s schedule begins at 9 a.m. with a final lecture presented by Dr. Jeanne Akin, recently retired Mary A. White Professor of Education, in Shawnee Hall.

The Arts, Beats and Eats festival will feature local art vendors, live music and food trucks from 9 a.m. to noon on the Oval, while academic and administrative buildings across campus will be open for tours and department reunions.

At noon, participants can join the Raley Walk for a special opportunity to walk through the grounds south of Raley Chapel and get a closer look at the transformation underway. After the walk, guests can head to the intramural fields for the Bison Bash tailgates featuring OBU departments and local Shawnee businesses and churches.

The afternoon will conclude with OBU football as the Bison host Ouachita Baptist University at 2 p.m. at Crain Family Stadium in the Hurt Complex. The Harvest Queen and Harvest King will be announced at halftime. A student event is planned for Saturday evening.

Another highlight of the weekend is the opportunity for alumni and visitors to experience the ongoing transformation of campus through tours and open houses.

“Each year, The Weekend provides an opportunity for alumni and friends to see firsthand how OBU continues to invest in its students and facilities while remaining grounded in its mission,” Quirk said. “We look forward to welcoming the OBU family back to campus.”