Homecoming Weekend at Troy University is an opportunity for the city of Troy and all Pike County to show appreciation to the area’s “hometown” university.

The Pike County Chamber of Commerce will play host to the annual Troy University Appreciation Day Parade at 9 a.m. Saturday in downtown Troy.

Traditionally, the parade has been at 10 a.m. but was moved to 9 a.m. when the Homecoming football game was changed to a noon kickoff for television coverage.

“Even with the earlier parade time, the response has been very good,”  said Leigh Anne Windham, Chamber membership and community development. “At latest count, we have 106 entries in the 2011 Troy University Homecoming Parade.”

“The parade is an opportunity for local businesses and organizations to show their appreciation to Troy University for the vital roles it plays in our community as an outstanding educational institution and provider of jobs and the many opportunities it offers to improve the quality of life for our citizens. We encourage everyone get up a little earlier Saturday morning and come to the parade and show their appreciation to Troy University.”

The Trojan Walk is set for 9:45 a.m. Saturday and tailgating will begin at 10 a.m. at different campus locations.

The pre-game show that features the presentation of the 2011 Homecoming Court is at 11:30 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Stadium. Kickoff of the Troy University/ North Texas gridiron clash is at noon.

The announcements of the 2011 Homecoming Queen and the Alumni of the Year will be made at halftime, along with the presentation of the Troy University Alumni Band and cheerleaders.

The Alpha Phi Alpha Greek Step Show will be at 7 p.m. Saturday. Admission will be charged. Troy University and Florida International volleyball will be at 7 p.m. at Trojan Arena.

The Troy University Homecoming Weekend activities get underway on Friday with the Softball Home Run Derby at 5 p.m. at the Troy University Softball Field on Elm Street. Also at 5 p.m. Troy University will face Florida Atlantic in volleyball at Trojan Arena.

The Troy University Alumni Baseball game is set for 7 p.m. at Riddle Pace Field. The university’s Gospel Choir will be in concert at 7:30 p.m. at the Claudia Crosby Theater. The concert is free and open to the public.

Homecoming Weekend activities will continue on Sunday with Lady Trojans basketball at Trojan Arena. Troy and Winthrop will tip at 1 p.m. Men’s basketball will feature the Trojans vs. LaGrange College at 4 p.m.

Barnes and Noble will be open from 7:30 a.m. until 7 p.m. on Friday and from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Saturday. Troy University alumni will receive a 10 percent discount by showing their alumni ID cards.