Robert Barker/University Photography

Football and fireworks, along with concerts, faculty presentations and a 5K race, will be highlights of this year's Trustee-Council Annual Meeting/Homecoming weekend, Oct. 17-18.

Jason Koski/University Photography

Homecoming 2013 offered a fireworks display over Schoellkopf Stadium. This year's Fireworks and Laser Light Show will feature 3-D laser technology.

From fireworks and football to performances and faculty presentations, Cornell is launching its on-campus sesquicentennial festivities with flash and fanfare during Trustee-Council Annual Meeting (TCAM)/Homecoming weekend, Oct. 17-18. Many events are free and open to the public.

“For the first time ever TCAM and Homecoming are happening together – and there’s no greater reason than to honor 150 years of Cornell and to celebrate the local community,” said Terry Hahn, director of Homecoming and special interest programs. “It’s going to be an awesome weekend, and we’re inviting everyone to bring their friends and family.”

Laura Denbow, senior director of volunteer programs, emphasized the significance of the joint celebration for volunteer leaders: “In the midst of their meetings and planning sessions, Cornell’s trustees and council members from all over the country and the world will get a chance to connect with students, faculty, staff and alumni. Campus will be buzzing with different voices all sharing the same Big Red energy and sesquicentennial spirit.”

Weekend highlights that are open to the public include:

Friday, Oct. 17

• The dedication of Sesquicentennial Commemorative Grove, a new campus landmark featuring an engraved timeline of pivotal university moments and influential quotes from Cornellians through the ages, 10:30-11:15 a.m., Libe Slope.
• “Talks in 10: Engagement, Sustainability and Global Cornell,” talks by six professors and showcasing compelling work in public engagement, sustainability and international impact, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Bailey Hall.
• Third annual Fireworks and Laser Light Show, featuring cutting-edge 3-D laser technology and a pre-show that includes a dance party and performances by student and Ithaca-community groups, 8-9 p.m., Schoellkopf Field.

Saturday, Oct. 18

• Homecoming 5K, 8:30 a.m., Cornell Plantations’ Arboretum, registration and entry fee required; all proceeds to benefit the United Way of Tompkins County.
• Family Fun Zone and Fan Festival, noon-3 p.m., Crescent and Lynah parking lots, with tailgate parties, free rides and games, and food and beverages for sale.
• Cornell versus Lehigh football game, 3 p.m., Schoellkopf Field. Tickets are free for Cornell employees and students, discounted for alumni; general tickets at CornellBigRedTickets.com.
• Homecoming Concert featuring Grace Potter and Icona Pop, 8 p.m., Barton Hall. Tickets: www.CornellConcerts.com.

Visit homecoming.cornell.edu for a full list of events and more information. Online registration is available for alumni.