When I was a Ph.D. student at South Dakota State University, one of the most memorable traditions I took part in was the annual Hobo Day celebration in Brookings. Hobo Day, the largest one-day event in South Dakota, was not just any homecoming—it was a full-blown festival, where the entire town came alive with excitement, creativity, and a sense of community.
I remember the buildup to the event as the campus would transform in anticipation. As a student, it was impossible to avoid the infectious energy that started to buzz in the days leading up to Hobo Day. From decorating floats for the parade to participating in the crazy events happening around campus, there was a sense that something special was in the air. People would dress in their “hobo” best, donning worn-out, patched-up clothes as part of the tradition. It was fun to see students, faculty, and locals all getting into the spirit, embracing the playful hobo theme with enthusiasm.
One of my favorite parts of the celebration was the legendary Hobo Day Parade. The floats, many of them created by students and local organizations, were always creative and a sight to behold. As I stood among the crowd, watching the floats roll down the streets of Brookings, it was impossible not to feel a sense of pride in being part of such a long-standing tradition. There was a certain charm to the way the parade brought together people of all ages, from students and alumni to local families, all gathered to celebrate.
The parade wasn’t the only highlight, though. I remember the early morning “Weary Wil” and “Dirty Lil” skits, two hobo characters that were central to the celebration. They were icons of the event, bringing humor and tradition to life with their antics. It was moments like these that reminded me how deeply rooted Hobo Day was in the history of the university and the town itself.
Another unforgettable experience was attending the football game, which was always a focal point of the day. SDSU’s football team, the Jackrabbits, would play in front of a packed stadium of passionate fans. The energy in the stadium was electric, and the cheers from the crowd added to the excitement of the game. Win or lose, the camaraderie shared by everyone in the stands was what made it special.
But beyond the parades and the football games, what really stood out to me about Hobo Day was the sense of tradition and connection it fostered. As an international student, it gave me a deeper understanding of American college culture and created a strong sense of belonging. I was participating in something that generations of SDSU students before me had experienced, and that sense of continuity made it all the more meaningful.
Looking back, Hobo Day was more than just a fun day on campus—it was a celebration of community, spirit, and tradition. It was one of those experiences that made my time at South Dakota State University feel truly special, and even now, it remains one of my favorite memories of my years in Brookings. If you ever find yourself in town during Hobo Day, don’t miss the chance to experience this unique celebration for yourself. It’s a day filled with joy, laughter, and a whole lot of heart.
