College of Arts and Sciences

Homecoming and Reunion Celebration | October 8-11, 2026

In addition to the events highlighted below, the university hosts a wide variety of activities and opportunities for classmates to gather and reconnect. The Class of 1976 will have additional events as they celebrate their 50th reunion. Be sure to visit this page for the latest updates and full schedule.

2026 EVENT SPOTLIGHTS

Blue Bash 7:00 PM

Freiberger Field

Get ready to paint the campus blue! Join us for Blue Bash, the ultimate kickoff to Homecoming Weekend at Case Western Reserve University. This  high-energy celebration brings together students, alumni, parents, faculty, and staff for an evening of school spirit, entertainment, and community pride. Enjoy live music, delicious food, interactive games, and more. This year, in celebration of our Bicentennial, the evening will culminate in a spectacular drone light show at 8:30 p.m. that illuminates the night sky with one-of-a-kind tribute to the CWRU’s 200-year legacy and bright future. Whether you’re reconnecting with old friends or making new memories, Blue Bash is the place to start your Homecoming experience with a bang. Come wearing your best Spartan gear and let’s show the true spirit of CWRU!

Dean’s Reception and Reunion Toast – 9:00 AM 

Haydn Hall – Room 100, The Haven Music Lounge

During this alumni event, join Dean David Gerdes for a toast to the class of 1976 in honor of their 50th reunion! Catch up with fellow alumni and friends as we celebrate your return to campus. Mimosas and light refreshments will be provided.

State of the College of Arts and Sciences – 10:00 AM

Haydn Hall – Room 100, the Haven Music Lounge

Dean David Gerdes will share his vision and priorities for the college, highlight faculty and student successes, and answer your questions.

Seating is limited to the first 80 people.

Homecoming Alumni Awards Luncheon – 11:30 AM

Tinkham Veale University Center, Kelvin and Eleanor Smith Foundation Ballroom

President Kaler will share the state of the university with alumni and the campus community. Enjoy lunch as the 2026 recipients of The Alumni Association Awards are recognized. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. Remarks and lunch begin at noon.

Seating is assigned, so you must register and check in in advance. Complimentary valet parking is provided and the drive-up location is on Bellflower Road.

Poor Clare by Chiara Atik – 7:30 PM

Kalberer Theatre at Maltz Performing Arts Center

It’s 1211 in Assisi, Italy, and Clare’s got beauty, wealth, and a rich suitor who showers her with expensive presents. So why is she drawn to this guy Francis who gave up all his possessions just because poor people are suffering? Everyone in town says he’s crazy. And yet… she starts seeing everything in her life differently. This hilarious, anachronistic telling of the real story of St. Clare considers the cost of doing good- and how little has changed for the haves and the have-nots in almost a millennium.

Purchase tickets and learn more here: Theatre.Case.Edu/Tickets

IGNITE: A Celebration of Leadership and Philanthropy – 5:30 PM

Cleveland Museum of Art, Morley Lecture Hall

This special evening is our way of thanking our generous supporters and honoring our accomplished alumni. Join Dean Gerdes as we recognize our Distinguished Alumni Award winners and the 50th reunion of the Class of 1976. Business attire suggested. Light refreshments provided. Complimentary parking.

This event is invitation-only for donors in the College of Arts and Sciences Dean’s Society and graduates from the class of 1976. Please contact us at collegesupport@cwru.edu for more information.  

Department of Music Concert – 7:30 PM

Milton and Tamar Maltz Performing Arts Center at Temple–Tifereth Israel, Silver Hall

Celebrate homecoming with a concert featuring university ensembles, including

Symphonic Winds, Case/University Circle Orchestra, Case Camerata Chamber Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, Marching Band and Case Concert Choir.

 

Dittrick Museum of Medical History Open House – 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Dittrick Medical History Center

View the history of medical instruments and technology while learning about the study of doctor-patient relationships throughout time.

Spartie’s Tailgate – 10:30 AM 

East 115th Street outside DiSanto Field

Join the Spartan community before kickoff for a festive tailgate experience! Hosted in partnership with student organizations and the Student Activities and Leadership team, this outdoor event features food, a beer garden, student performances, and more. Rain or shine, it’s a great opportunity to connect with alumni, students, families, the CWRU community, and, of course, Spartie!

Cost(s):

Alumni & Families(register by 10/8/2026): $20

Alumni & Families(day of): $25 CWRU

Students: FREE (register on CampusGroups)

Admission includes food, non-alcoholic beverages, and tailgate activities. Alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase.

Homecoming Football Game and Celebration of Homecoming Court – 1:00 PM 

Come cheer on the CWRU Spartans as they take on Saint Francais (SFU).

This year, kickoff is at 1:00 PM.

See the Homecoming Court at halftime!

Admission is free if you register ahead.

Student-Led Tour of the Cleveland Museum of Art – 3:00 PM

Cleveland Museum of Art

Graduate students from the Department of Art History lead tours that highlight their favorite pieces in the museum and showcase their expertise.

 

Questions about the college’s homecoming activities?

Please email collegesupport@cwru.edu or call 216.368.0097