TROY, Ala. (TROJANVISION) — A downtown block party kicked off Troy University’s homecoming weekend.

Friday night, band Blackberry Breeze blew away the crowd in downtown Troy.

“As a former student I’ve seen a lot of bands at the university but never seen this one,” said Troy University Alumni, Joe Hutto. “They’re really good.”

“I have not seen them before, but they are a great band I think they’ve done a super job,” Troy University alumna and 1989 Homecoming Queen Sherry Starling said.

The party wasn’t only about the band; it was also about bringing the community and the university together to celebrate former students and encourage school spirit.

“Activities like this showcase the university and the community as well to bring everyone in one place kind of show their spirit and support for what’s going on in both the community and the school,” Hutto explained.

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“I think it’s important for the two to interact and merge in activities as they’re both such a part of each other,” Starling added.

The celebration of the past and the progress Troy has made since then meant quite a lot to both Hutto and Starling.

“I am a graduate of the university two times, my wife is a graduate and works here, she’s a former student council president and so Troy University means a lot to our family,” Hutto said. “Being able to come back and having pride in the school and we’re excited to be a part of the celebration.”

“I came to school at Troy years ago,” Starling told TrojanVision. “It is so great to have a time and an event where alumni can come back to see all of the wonderful changes.”

The homecoming celebrations continued with Saturday’s annual homecoming parade. You can watch the parade via the university’s Facebook page.