Editor’s note, Oct. 7, 2:30 p.m.: This story has been updated throughout.

As the sun shone over the Hilltop and the smell of sunscreen and beer permeated the Boulevard, SMU students rallied for the Centennial Homecoming Parade.

Greek organizations and other groups build floats based on a theme for the parade every year. But this year’s theme was special.

“It’s the centennial celebration so, of course, SMU had to go all out,” said sophomore Alejandro Villaquiran.

The theme, “Hundredth on the Hilltop,” paid homage to the parades of previous years by giving student organizations and entertainers the chance to bring to life a theme from a past parade.

Some of these themes included a saloon-inspired celebration, a candy wonderland, and a Disney adventure.

SMU also by brought back the alumni that made those past parades possible. Kings and queens of past years led the way in an energy-filled event. Candy was tossed, horns went off, and the voices of Mustangs were heard through the streets.

“It’s just kind of like one big block party,” said Jack Higgins, an SMU sophomore and the parade coordinator.

The parade took place on Saturday at 3 p.m. before SMU’s football game against James Madison. The floats drove down Binkley Ave. and around Bishop Blvd.

“It was a great way to get everyone to come together and show their love for SMU,” said Marco Lopez, an SMU freshman.

The buzz of the parade continued for hours after all of the floats drove down the Boulevard; and as students, faculty, and visitors made their way to Ford Stadium for the football game, many wondered how next year’s parade could live up to the excitement of this year’s centennial celebration.

“I can’t wait to see what’s in store for next year,” said Villaquiran.