Students and the student-led Planning and Activities Board (PAB) are gearing up for the annual Homecoming Fest at the Polytechnic campus from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Student Union on Nov. 13.

“We are putting Homecoming Fest together to get students pumped for the game and have fun,” says Derek Upayokin, PAB traditions chair and nutrition major.

At Homecoming Fest, students can get their own game on by climbing a rock wall, enjoying cotton candy and popcorn, practicing their football throw and punting, and playing Xbox 360 with Rockband and Wii Sports. Thanks to local businesses, gift cards and other giveaways will be provided.

After students work up a sweat, they can get something to eat, too, while The Edge radio station deejays for the event.

“We will have free food like hot dogs, burgers, potato salad, fruit bowl and two large cakes in celebration of ASU’s 50th anniversary,” says Upayokin.

Something a little different to spice up the festival is a demonstration by history students from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences of a mangonel, a medieval siege weapon, which will be flinging pumpkins following Homecoming Fest. The history students collaborated with Polytechnic engineering faculty and students to build the antique catapult. The demonstration’s location will be announced at Homecoming Fest.

The Morrison School of Management and Agribusiness students are hosting a few things this year, too. The Pre-Vet Club is holding its annual “Kiss the Pig” contest at Homecoming Fest to raise money for the club, and students living in the new Morrison House are planning to make a float for the parade.

After a brief hiatus, the ASU Homecoming Office Decorating Contest is returning to Poly. The contest will be judged by a committee made up of students, faculty and staff from the campus on Nov. 14. Those interested in being a judge to help promote the “Maroon and Golden Anniversary” this year can contact Upayokin at (480) 727-1699.

“We know staff and faculty want to show their Sun Devil pride as much as students, so start brainstorming on how to give your department office an ‘extreme makeover’ that will impress the judges,” says Mike Mader, assistant dean of Student Life at the Polytechnic campus. “There will be prizes, but mostly bragging rights are at stake.”

On game day, a shuttle service for students, faculty and staff will depart from the Student Union, heading to the Homecoming parade, Block Party and football game in Tempe. The shuttle also will be available to return attendees to the Polytechnic campus after the game. Beverages and snacks will be provided on both bus rides. A sign-up sheet for the shuttle will be at the front desk of the Student Union.

In addition, each of the academic units and PAB from the Polytechnic campus will be entertaining alumni and guests under the Polytechnic tent at the Block Party. There will be giveaways, children’s activities and demonstrations of ASU student projects such as the Baja vehicle.