In anticipation of Saturday’s NCAA Final Four match-up between the Butler Bulldogs and the VCU Rams, the public is invited to join students, staff and the Butler community for several events throughout the weekend.

Thursday:
A Butler-Tarkington neighborhood rally is taking place from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 56th and Illinois Streets. Sponsored by area shops, there event will feature “hot dawgs” and blue cupcakes. There will also be chances to win Butler gear and gift certificates to neighborhood establishments.

Friday:
Officially declared “blue and white day” on campus, wear blue and white all day to support the Bulldogs.

Gov. Mitch Daniels will join Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard and Butler University President Bobby Fong on the steps of Atherton Union for a pep rally.
Join Daniels, Ballard, Fong and university mascot Hink to celebrate the Bulldogs success and get geared up for Saturday’s game. There will also be live music from local cover band Zanna-Doo. The rally will kick off at noon. Hampton Drive will be closed between Clarendon Road and Beta Road from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Rain location: Atherton Union Reilly Room

Saturday:
Get ready for the big game by taking a stroll down Hampton Drive, the sight of many post-game celebrations, for the Bulldogs Dancing in the Streets Fair. Get your game face on at the face painting station or play fair games. There will be food, some for free and some for purchase, and Butler giveaways. The event will run from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Hampton Drive will be closed between Clarendon Road and Beta Road from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

If you can’t make the trek to Houston, what better place to watch the game than the Bulldogs home court? Head over to Hinkle Fieldhouse for a community viewing party. Doors open at 5 p.m. and the games tips off at 6 p.m. Concessions will not be available, but feel free to bring your own.
Another Hinkle viewing party will be scheduled for Monday, April 4 if Butler advances to the title game. Check back for more details.