UCO to Celebrate Student’s Return to Campus with Stampede Week
Aug. 14, 2026
The University of Central Oklahoma will welcome new and returning students with its annual Stampede Week, a campus tradition designed to foster connection, community and Broncho Pride, Aug. 13-21. The celebration features a variety of events and activities to help students kick off the academic year with energy and excitement.
The 2026 festivities include traditional favorites like Bronchos Night Out, Aug. 15, as well as ChoChella, Central’s annual concert, Aug. 20.
“We can't wait to welcome our Bronchos to another unforgettable Stampede Week. It's one of the most exciting times of the year, bringing students together through traditions, live entertainment, giveaways, great food and countless opportunities to make new connections,” said Daysia Blackwell, coordinator of New Student and Family Programs at UCO.
“Whether you're joining us for your very first Stampede Week or returning for another year, we hope you'll take part in the festivities, meet new friends and celebrate everything that makes the UCO community so special. We're excited to kick off an incredible year together.”
Stampede Week events are free and open to UCO students; a valid UCO ID will be required for admission.
Events include:
- Freshman Convocation, 3-6 p.m., Friday, Aug. 14, Hamilton Field House: Celebrate the official start of your college journey with UCO President Todd G. Lamb and First Lady Monica Lamb, faculty and fellow freshmen.
- Bronchos Night Out sponsored by MidFirst Bank, 7-10 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 15, Buddy’s Lawn: Dance, play and cool off at one of Stampede Week's biggest parties featuring music, foam and plenty of fun. Participants should expect to get messy. Free T-shirts will be handed out at the end of the night.
- Prez Fest BBQ, 6-8:30 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 16, Broncho Lake, the Blue Tent and the Nigh University Center Ballrooms: Meet UCO's President and First Lady while enjoying free food, games, music and activities with your new Broncho Family.
- Fraternity and Sorority Life (FSL) Fair, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Monday, Aug. 17, Broncho Lake: Meet members of UCO's fraternities and sororities and learn how joining Greek life can enhance your college experience.
- Volunteer and Part-Time Job Fair, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 18, Broncho Lake
- Student Involvement Fair, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 19, Broncho Lake
- Buck’s Beach Bonanza, 7-9 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 19, Buddy’s Lawn: Soak up the fun with water slides, T-shirt dyeing, sand art and plenty of opportunities to connect with friends.
- ChoChella, sponsored by the Student Programming Board and the UCO Student Association, 6-10 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 20, Hamilton Field House: Students can wrap up Stampede Week in style at UCO’s annual concert celebration featuring acclaimed country and Red Dirt singer-songwriter, and UCO alumna, Kaitlin Butts. Hamilton Field House follows a clear bag policy. Guests may bring water bottles but they must be empty and clear for entry.
For the full week schedule and event information, visit go.uco.edu/StampedeWeek.
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Cutline: The University of Central Oklahoma will welcome new and returning students with its annual Stampede Week, a campus tradition designed to foster connection, community and Broncho Pride, Aug. 13-21. The celebration features a variety of events and activities to help students kick off the academic year with energy and excitement.
