Saturday’s Homecoming festivities will kick off with pomp and circumstance when the 59th Annual Troy Appreciation and Homecoming Day Parade rolls down 3 Notch Street at 10 a.m.

“This is a time that is unique to university towns,” said Kathleen Sauer, president of the Pike County Chamber of Commerce. “We have different high schools come, all of our queens are there and then we have businesses and other groups participating to show their support and spirit.

The Sound of the South will play tunes to gear fans up for the game, but it’s the horses who will make their return to the parade and bring up the end.

Sauer said parade goers can expect to see all sorts of creative interpretations of this year’s theme, “Trojans: Here, There and Everywhere.”

“And thanks should go to Dan Smith with the city’s Parks and Recreation Department, Dawn Railey and our committee members for all their behind the scenes work,” Sauer said.

Immediately following the parade, the Downtown Tailgate will kick off with Ben Pritchett providing live music.

“He covers all styles, so there’ll be a little something for everyone,” said Sheila Jackson, Troy’s Tourism and Public Relations director.

The Chamber of Commerce building will be open to provide services and restroom facilities for downtown guests and businesses will be open with special gameday deals.

Also, this weekend, Sauer said, is the Christmas Open House in Troy. Businesses all over the city will be welcoming first time and return guests with specials and new arrivals.

“It’s going to be a great weekend,” Sauer said. “All people have to do is come out and enjoy.”