Drake Relays

Drake Relays Alumni Events

2025 Featured Alumni Events

Let’s DU Drinks at the Blue Oval – A social gathering to start your weekend of Relays events. This beloved alumni gathering, held at the Drake Alumni tent inside Drake Stadium, is the perfect way to reconnect with old friends and soak in the electric atmosphere of the Drake Relays.

All-Alumni Painted Street Party – For the first time ever, the All-Alumni Party is happening on Painted Street! Come back to the street where friendships were formed, traditions were made, and the Bulldog spirit thrived. This is your chance to experience the magic of Painted Street in a whole new way.

Black Alumni Reunion – Return to the yard and relive the legacy. The Black Alumni Reunion is an unforgettable experience—bringing together the old and new and reconnecting classmates and friends while reliving those beloved Bulldog days. This year includes many fun events, including the History Exhibit and Cocktail Reception, Block Party, Community Service Project, Fellowship Brunch, and much more!

Alumni Awards – The most visible sign of a university’s vitality can be seen by examining the success and achievements of its alumni. Drake University and the National Alumni Association Board of Directors are proud to honor exceptional graduates each year during the Drake Relays at the Alumni Awards Ceremony. These awards recognize the significant contributions of our alumni to their alma mater, their profession, and their community. The ceremony is free and open to the public.

For the Family

Drake Relays Bucket List

  • Find a Painted Bulldog Around Campus
  • Walk the Bulldog Mile
  • Choose Your Favorite Square on Painted Street
  • Visit the Kissing Rock
  • Take a Selfie with Griff II
  • Attend the Beautiful Bulldog Contest
  • Run or Watch the Grand Blue Mile
  • Watch an Athlete Attempt to Break a World Record
  • Take a Photo Decked Out in Drake Gear
A bulldog wearing a blue crown with a gold "D," and a colorful tie-dye collar.

For the Family

Drake Relays Bucket List

  • Find a Painted Bulldog Around Campus
  • Walk the Bulldog Mile
  • Choose Your Favorite Square on Painted Street
  • Visit the Kissing Rock
  • Take a Selfie with Griff II
  • Attend the Beautiful Bulldog Contest
  • Run or Watch the Grand Blue Mile
  • Watch an Athlete Attempt to Break a World Record
  • Take a Photo Decked Out in Drake Gear
A bulldog wearing a blue crown with a gold "D," and a colorful tie-dye collar.

2025 Drake Relays Schedule

Monday, April 21

Beautiful Bulldog Contest
Doors open at 5:00 p.m.
The Knapp Center

Thursday, April 24

Alumni Awards Ceremony
5:15 p.m.
Sheslow Auditorium

Let’s DU Drinks at the Blue Oval
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Drake Alumni Tent, Drake Stadium

Friday, April 25

50-Year Reunion – Day 1

All-Alumni Painted Street Party
4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Painted Street & Jewett Hall

School of Education Gathering
4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Painted Street and Jewett Hall

CPHS Alumni and Friends Gathering
4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Painted Street and Jewett Hall

Saturday, April 26

50-Year Reunion – Day 2

Fleet Feet Alumni Social Run/Walk
8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
521 E. Locust Street

Campus Tour
1:00 p.m.
South Stairs – Old Main

LGBTQ+ Alumni Mixer
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Patty and Fred Turner Jazz Center

SJMC Relays Party
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Meredith Hall

LatinX Alumni Mixer
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Levitt Hall, Old Main