Gumbo Ya Ya is a Homecoming tradition. This year, the Campus Activities Board (CAB) will host the event on Wednesday, Nov. 2, in the Student Union Park beginning at 11 a.m. The women from the Alpha Omicron Pi fraternity will also be in the park alongside CAB from 11 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. to hand out free treats to students for their own annual Baked Goods Cook-Off.

“This year we will be baking brownies, cookies and cupcakes and giving them away for free,” said Alpha Omicron Pi’s corresponding secretary, Kristen Phelps. “We are doing this because we know everyone loves a free snack every once in a while and we want to provide a dessert for everyone after enjoying their gumbo.”

“It is free to all students,” said Todd Mcelroy, coordinator of CAB.

According to Mcelroy, the event will offer free gumbo, french bread, drinks, cookies and cupcakes to all students who attend. In addition to the food, there will also be inflatables and a mechanical bull for students to enjoy.

Gumbo Ya Ya will feature a cake cutting ceremony with the 2011 Homecoming Queen Janee Ratelle, King Chris McKinley and President John L. Crain.  The Homecoming Court will also make an appearance, followed by the announcement of the Door Decoration contest and sheet sign competition.

In addition to free gumbo, students will be able to participate in a number of activites such as inflatable obstacle courses and boxing rings.

For more information on Homecoming activities, you can visit selu.edu/homecoming, and if you would like to find out more about the Campus Activities Board, you can visit their office in the Student Union Room 201.