UC Irvine Homecoming Block Party draws festive crowd of Anteaters

The UC Irvine campus buzzed with school spirit on Saturday, Feb. 28, as approximately 2,000 Anteaters of all ages came together for a festive Homecoming Block Party at the Bren celebration.

Sunny skies and cheerful energy greeted guests at the event, where a Ferris Wheel spun riders high above the Bren Events Center, and carnival games offered fun for all ages. Campus units and organizations from across campus and UCI Health sponsored booths dished out information and swag, and music filled the air throughout the afternoon, from upbeat live bands to the vibrant rhythms of the Mariachi Orgullo de UCI and the Ballet Folklorico de UCI. Between rides, snacks and laughter, friends old and new made memories that will last until next year.

As the sun dipped toward evening, the excitement shifted to the Bren Events Center for the UC Irvine men's basketball game. Fueled by the day's positive energy, the Anteaters took the court and beat visiting UC Santa Barbara, sending the home crowd home with another reason to cheer.

Whether newcomers to campus traditions or seasoned Anteater alumni, attendees agreed that Saturday's Homecoming delivered unforgettable fun, community connection and plenty of school spirit.