WINONA, Minn. – After more than century of the Winona State homecoming parade on the Huff Street corridor into downtown, the university is scaling down to a campus-centric route. Instead of embarking on Second Street and going down Huff to Mark Street, the parade this year will start at Sanborn and Johnson streets and wind through campus. The university declined to share its thinking for the shorter route, but it does shield the spectacle of drunken student revelry from public view. The university announcement said:
“Spectators can view the parade in several grassy spots along the route on campus. The parade, like the rest of campus, is an alcohol, drug and smoke-free event.”
Police Chief Tom Williams welcomed he change: “It does alleviate shutting down a main street, which is helpful.” Homecoming is October 12. State legislatir Gene Pelowski, a Winona State grad, will be the grand marshal. Homecoming events includes a visit from Marvel movie star Simu Liu. The football game is with University of Mary of North Dakota. The volleyball team plays Northern State of South Dakota.
Alcohol-free route. The parade will start at Sensen Hallm turn right at Stark Hall toward the campus gazebo, then left toward Winona Street, then right about two blocks. From the former 10 blocks on Huff to five.