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Parachute headlines WMU's 31st annual Bronco Bash

by Tonya Durlach

Aug. 22, 2011 | WMU News

Photo of WMU Bronco Bash.
Thousands expected to turn out for Bronco Bash Sept. 9.
KALAMAZOO--Western Michigan University expects an estimated 25,000 students and community members to turn out for its 31st annual Bronco Bash Friday, Sept. 9.

The event, which will run from 3 to 7 p.m. at Fountain Plaza near Miller Auditorium, welcomes students back to campus and the city of Kalamazoo for the start of a new school year. It features games, live music and nearly 450 booths where students can peruse the wares of area merchants, pick up loads of free stuff, and get information about WMU student organizations and departments as well as local businesses and volunteer opportunities.

"Bronco Bash serves as one of the main opening events for the campus community," says Chris Sligh, director of Student Activities and Leadership Programs at WMU. "It gives everyone a chance to catch up with each other after being away all summer, and it allows new students to explore the many ways in which they can get involved on campus and within the community."

Five bands have been booked for this year's event, including headliner Parachute, scheduled to take the stage at 6 p.m. The Charlottesville, Va., natives recently toured with the Plain White Ts, Michelle Branch and the Goo Goo Dolls, and have appeared on "Jay Leno," CBS's "The Early Show," ABC's "Good Morning America" and "Jimmy Kimmel Live." The band's music also has been featured in such television programs as "One Tree Hill," "90210" and "Vampire Diaries."

Live music lineup

For more information, visit Bronco Bash online, or contact bash coordinators at (269) 387-0083.