Tonight, 45 students will compete in the UF Homecoming Pageant.
The pageant, which is the first in a line of events leading up to the homecoming football game Saturday, will be held at the Phillips Center for Performing Arts from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. The 45 contestants in this year’s pageant will compete in five categories, which include interviews, talent and a final question.
Tristan Ahlquist, the associate producer of communications for Gator Growl, said students fill out an application to compete. Students who are involved with campus life are chosen to participate, he added.
“The pageant contestants are leaders on campus and represent the Student Body at the University of Florida,” Ahlquist said.
He said the budget for the pageant is about $8,000. Contestants also have sponsors to raise money for the pageant.
This year, Hurricane Matthew delayed the pageant by a night, but he doesn’t expect the delay to impact turnout, Ahlquist said.
At the end of the night, three women and three men will be selected as finalists to be a part of Homecoming Court, and the winners will be announced at Gator Growl on Friday, he said.
“Each individual performs, and their talent does not always reflect their involvement on campus,” he said. “It’s exciting to see what each contestant brings to the table.”
Taylor McMahon, 18, will be cheering as her friend, Hallie Ann Zimmerman, competes in the pageant.
“I’m excited to see Hallie on stage and being herself,” the UF sociology sophomore said. “I hope she gets up there and gives it everything she has.”
Monday at 7 p.m. at the Phillips Center: Homecoming Pageant
Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. (food) and 7:00 p.m. (show) at the Phillips Center: Soulfest
Friday at 10 a.m. on the Plaza of the Americas: Homecoming Festival
Friday at 11:15 a.m. beginning at the James G. Pressly Stadium: SunTrust Gator Gallop
Friday at noon starting on West University Avenue: Homecoming Parade
Friday at 6 p.m. on Flavet Field: Gator Growl
Saturday at 4 p.m. at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium: Homecoming Football Game
UF students and guests fill Flavet field as they wait for Gator Growl to begin Nov. 6, 2015.
