This weekend is Homecoming. For the first time in recent years, Homecoming will not be overshadowed by a University-run event. Last year it was the Inaugural Ball; the year before was the 175th Anniversary. This year will be students’ chance to show everyone what kind of show they can put on.

Events target everyone this year – undergrads, grad students and alumni alike. While all the plans have been made and the food ordered, one key ingredient to success remains – students. Everyone should participate in this weekend’s events. Many students perpetually complain about the lack of big GW events. They can stop complaining, because this is the biggest event (save Commencement) of the semester.

David Spade will perform a standup comedy show at the Smith Center 9 p.m. Thursday. Tickets for the show cost $10. Ten bucks isn’t going to break anyone’s budget. Spade is a funny guy. His skits on “Saturday Night Live” and his characters in different films always have left the audience laughing. This event probably is most GW students’ only chance at seeing him live (unless they’re willing to take a trip to New York).

Friday night is the Homecoming gala at the Washington Marriott. The Marriott is a quick walk from campus so attendees won’t suffer from the cold weather too much. Most students here have a nice set of clothes – guys have their nicely-cut suits; girls have a snazzy dress waiting to be worn. This is the perfect opportunity to take those clothes out of the back of the closet and put them to good use. Besides, it’s always fun to get all dressed up with friends.

Saturday night is the step show contest at Lisner Auditorium. If you saw the hypnotized guy at the Tom Deluca show who was stomping and grooving away on stage and liked what you saw, then this is the show for you.

All events should have been better advertised to off-campus students. While the residence halls were awash in posters, many students remain unaware of Homecoming events. Perhaps a more thorough advertising campaign can be done in the future. Regardless, everyone should go to as many of the events as possible. There’s food, fun, basketball games and lots more. Go to Homecoming. Help make it a success.