Augustana to Celebrate Viking Days 2025, University’s 102nd Homecoming

Augustana University is celebrating its 102nd homecoming during Viking Days 2025, beginning on Monday, Sept. 22, through Sunday, Sept. 28. Throughout the week, current and past Vikings will unite to celebrate all things blue and gold - a beloved tradition that officially became known as "Viking Days" in 1929.

Augustana students will begin Viking Days 2025 with a kick off event on the Campus Green, followed by their Sailing Into Service event on Tuesday. This event will allow Augustana to give back to the community by partnering with Augie Thrift to provide local animal shelters with handmade dog toys.

Coronation - the crowning of Viking Days Royalty - will take place on Wednesday night, Sept. 24, in the Elmen Center, following the Viking Feast.

"I'm filled with excitement to help bring this special tradition to life in a memorable way," said Viking Days 2025 Co-Chair Eryn Kraft '27. "Viking Days is more than just a homecoming celebration, it's a powerful reminder of the spirit and shared pride that define the Augustana community. From alumni and students to faculty, staff, family and friends, this week brings everyone together to honor our traditions, make new memories and celebrate the impact that Augustana has had on many.

"Viking Days is a time to celebrate everything that makes Augustana so special. What truly sets Viking Days apart is how the spirit of Augustana extends far beyond campus - touching many different lives and creating memories that last for years. Each Viking Days leaves a lasting impression, and those moments are cherished by everyone who experiences them. I can't wait to help bring this unforgettable tradition to life for so many," said Viking Days 2025 Co-Chair Corra Yockey '27.

The Augustana Class of 1975 will celebrate its 50th reunion on campus this year - a time to share treasured memories of their Augustana experience and reflect on the historic events that occurred during their years on campus, including Congress' approval of Nelson Rockefeller as vice president of the U.S., "The Godfather Part II" was voted best picture, and the best-selling single was "Love Will Keep Us Together" by Captain & Tennille.

"Augustana holds a special place in my heart because of its strong sense of community. Viking Days is an opportunity for students, alumni, staff, faculty and friends to celebrate Augustana. I look forward to seeing some extra Augustana pride during the week of Viking Days!" said Alumni Engagement & Event Services Strategist Lauren Teller '24, who once proudly held a spot on the Viking Days Royal court (pictured in the first row on the far right).

On Saturday morning, Augustana will bring back the time-honored tradition of its Pancake Feed, followed by the Viking Days Parade, tailgating with the Viking Marching Band and its alumni in Augieville. Augustana Football will take on Winona State at 1 p.m., in Kirkeby-Over Stadium, and Augustana Volleyball plays Minnesota Duluth at 5 p.m., in the Elmen Center. The Alumni Achievement & Horizon Award Ceremony and all-alumni gathering, Vikings Reunite, will take place at Midco Arena on Saturday evening.

Viking Days Worship will take place in Hamre Recital Hall on Sunday morning and Viking Soccer will host Minnesota Duluth in the early afternoon to conclude the week-long celebration.

For information on all things Viking Days, visit augie.edu/VikingDays. View the full Viking Days 2025 schedule.