The sound of music and laughter paired with the smell of good Southern cooking coming from Friendship Circle can only mean one thing: it is Southeastern game day.
Not only were there more activities than average game days, but also many alumni came back for the game, including past football players, student body presidents and more.
“We really try to bring people back together and Homecoming is the best opportunity. I come out here every year to as many games as possible. I really like to come back to the campus that’s given so much to my life,” said Chris Barcelona, Delta Tau Delta alumnus and former student body president. “My favorite part about tailgating is exactly what you think it is. Seeing people you don’t normally see everyday and just try to have a good time.”
According to Barcelona, the Delta Tau Delta chapter has set up in the same tailgating location since 2003. This small tradition sets memories of Southeastern for students and alumni. Having many alumni uniting with the active chapter for Homecoming is important for both.
“It’s great to talk to people who have been through this before,” said Ben Black, Delta Tau Delta second vice president about tailgating with alumni.  “It’s really great to see those guys out here.”
The Greek organizations were not alone in reuniting for tailgating before the big homecoming game.  At the former players’ tent, past Southeastern football players not only cooked, played games and enjoyed the day, but they shared old memories.  
“My favorite thing about tailgating is the former player tent right here and the old timers from the 60s, 70s and 80s sharing their stories, listening to the legacy they left and the stuff we’re trying to carry on through that 15-20 year gap football was gone,” said Merrick Lanaux, former Southeastern wide receiver.
Alumni uniting with current students was only one of the benefits of the Homecoming tailgate.  There was also a mechanical bull, hayride, children activities such as face painting and the Homecoming day parade.  The spirit of Homecoming and the successful athletics made tailgating more packed than usual.
“We definitely tailgate every week, Homecoming just happens to be the week we get the most support, especially this year,” said Black.  “The athletics are really pumped up this year, the football team is doing really well so I really think that’s contributing to why we have such good attendance.  We definitely come out to support our team and we are a social fraternity so we love the social aspect of it.”
Black came out with other Delta Tau Delta members the night before to start tailgating for the game.  Until around 2 a.m. the group listened to music, bonded and got pumped for homecoming.  
Not all tailgating groups came out quite so early.  Some members from the former players tent arrived at 8 a.m. of Homecoming day and still others didn’t arrive until noon or later.   
Tailgating is an important aspect to Lion football games.  Through food, music and conversations, tailgaters make memories, meet new people and prepare for the big game later that night.  
“We have a lot of fun tailgating.  Everyone really gets together and you enjoy the game, you enjoy the camaraderie, you know.  It’s a lot of food; a lot of good fun and we just enjoy a good time,” said Lowell Doney, Pi Kappa Alpha president.  “Lion up!”
Students, alumni and Lion fans were presented with the opportunity to showcase their pride in Southeastern while participating in various festivities throughout the day leading up to the game.