The glow of hot air balloons filled Friars’ Field on Quincy University‘s campus Sep.17, bringing the Quincy community together for the annual Balloon Glow during homecoming week.

Every year, Quincy University holds an event that is special to not only students, but to the entire Quincy community. The annual Balloon Glow, which follows the annual Homecoming Parade, gathers hundreds of people to QU campus. Children run around, adults try to find a place to sit, and students gather with their group of friends, all waiting for the balloons to light up the sky.

While the hot air balloons are the main attraction, this event is more than just watching colorful balloons light up the night. It is about bringing people together and creating an experience that both students and community members can share.

“It’s a beautiful night and the whole community is here. It’s been so fun to hang out with my friends, meet new people, and everything else,” Caden Thorpe, QU student, said.

With a DJ blasting music throughout the field, food trucks and vendors lining the area, the event makes for a great family or friend evening outing. As the sun fades, the balloons glow, giving people an experience that is unique to homecoming at QU.

For many students, events like these can be what they remember most about their college experience. While most students come to college for reasons such as academics or athletics, experiences outside of the classroom or field can make a lasting impact. Homecoming and traditions such as the balloon glow allow students to build friendships, create memories, and grow closer to the community surrounding them.

“I would say my favorite part of the Balloon Glow is how everyone comes out and listens to the DJ, and they watch the balloons get filled with the flames and eventually go up into the air,” Robbie McElroy, QU student, said.

The event typically follows the annual Homecoming Parade that started at 6:30 p.m. this year. The parade holds the role of attracting people to campus before the start of the Balloon Glow. The parade features sports teams, clubs, band, and more.

“I really liked the parade. being able to engage with the children and adults within our community, seeing how happy they are really fills my cup,” Olivia Martinez, student at QU, said.

In a time where a lot of people spend most of their free time online, events such as the Balloon Glow can give people necessary face-to-face interaction and connection. The event helps to remind students that they are part of something larger than themselves and helps emphasizes the strong relationship between Quincy University and its’ community.

As QU wrapped up its homecoming week, the Balloon Glow remains one of the university’s most favorited events of the year. As it has grown over the years, it serves as a celebration of community, school spirit, and the connections that help make QU feel like home.