Five Ways to Celebrate Homecoming at George Mason University

Five Ways to Celebrate Homecoming at George Mason University

Homecoming season means hundreds of alumni returning to campus to celebrate and enjoy a good game. The best part about a George Mason University Homecoming is its location. Returning alumni can enjoy the homecoming activities as well as tourist attractions in the nation’s capital. Start planning your homecoming trip by finding a hotel near George Mason University, and then check out these ways you can celebrate.

Attend the Homecoming Game

Image via Flickr by vararchivesmonth

If you’re planning a trip for homecoming, it’s safe to say that you’re looking to attend the actual game. George Mason University’s homecoming activities take place in February during college basketball season. Alumni can purchase tickets online for a special discount and pick up at will-call the day of the game. Special blocks are held just for alumni in the basketball arena. Purchasing in advance is the best way to save and ensure you receive a ticket for the game.

Visit a Local Winery or Brewery for a Tasting

Northern Virginia is home to a few local wineries and breweries. Contact a local business and set up an alumni tasting for you and a few other friends and alumni. Paradise Springs Winery is less than 10 miles from the university, and the winery is open daily year round. Private group tastings are available for about $20 per person, and they include a tasting of the full flights of wines, a personal wine educator, and a private tasting room.

Beltway Brewing Company is open Tuesday through Sunday with an ever-changing list of beers on tap. Contact them to set up a tasting to try the local favorites.

Set up a Pub Crawl

A successful pub crawl requires proper planning. The goal is to hit as many bars and pubs as possible in one night. Thanks to companies like Uber and Lyft, planning a fun night is as easy as mapping your drop off and pick up area. Start the night at one bar and cover as many as you can within walking distance of each other. When the night is over, order your ride back to the hotel. Fat Tuesdays Raw Bar, The Auld Shebeen, Revolution, Prime Time Sports Bar & Grille, and 703 bar+kitchen are all close to the university and within walking distance of each other.

Go Sightseeing in D.C.

There’s so much to see and do for free in Washington, D.C. Attending homecoming is a perfect excuse to add on a few extra days to go sightseeing while visiting the area. The National Museum of African American History & Culture is the newest hot ticket if you’re visiting D.C. If you’re planning to visit, be sure to check for tickets early since they go fast. You can also arrive around 1 p.m. if you’re looking to walk in without a timed entry ticket. After your visit, check out one of the other Smithsonian museums or head to the Botanical Gardens for a relaxing stroll.

Go Tailgating

Image via Flickr by Office of Technology Integration

George Mason’s homecoming is held during the winter months. While it may be difficult to plan an outdoor tailgate, you can still plan one indoors. The alumni association hosts an indoor tailgating event that caters to alumni and their families. There is a special play area for children, food tastings, a cozy beer corner, and games to enjoy prior to the big game. Ticket prices vary depending on the options you select, and children under 12 are free. You can also set up for free with your own food and drinks in the designated outdoor area.

No matter what you’re planning on doing during your homecoming trip to George Mason, be sure to pack warm clothing and book your hotel early.