Unlike many schools, Buford City Schools’ Homecoming celebrations involve more than just the high school. Each school participates in the week-long festivities that honor the many traditions that make Buford uniquely Buford.
While activities occur during the week, Friday is by far the best day of Homecoming. On Friday morning, senior football players, cheerleaders and band members travel to each of the other schools to hype up the students.
School is always released early on Friday followed by the annual Homecoming parade that starts at the Buford Arena, travels up Sawnee to Main Street and proceeds down Main Street to end at South Lee Street. Spectators line the streets the entire way all looking to see the various participants and catch some candy that is thrown out to them.
On Friday night is the Homecoming game with the crowning of the Homecoming queen at half time. This year’s queen is Kirby Wallis who is on the varsity basketball team.
The Wolves defeated Mill Creek 39-27 to a record breaking crowd of close to 11,000 spectators. The stands were packed out and many had to stand around on the outskirts of the field. The game was the battle of two undefeated teams ranked at the top of Class AAAAAAA. Georgia head coach Kirby Smart flew in by helicopter to watch the game and Ohio State head coach Ryan Day also made an appearance. Numerous other college assistant coaches and recruiters attended the game as well.
FEATURED PHOTO: The Buford Band of Wolves are one of the highlights of the annual Homecoming parade as they march down Main Street at 155 members strong. Photo by Alicia Payne.