There’s no place like home, and Aggies will celebrate the familiar during the 112th Picnic Day, which will carry the theme “The Journey Home: Destination Davis.”

The theme was announced Monday (Nov. 17) by the students who organize the event, which is thought to be the largest campus open house in the nation. 

“This year’s theme celebrates the many paths that lead us home to Davis,” a news release quoted Picnic Day Vice Chair Saanika Gupta as saying. “Whether you’re stepping onto campus for the first time, returning after years away, or have always called Davis home.”

Picnic Day is set for April 18, 2026.

Picnic Day Chair Trinh Nguyen Diem Vo said the theme celebrates feelings of belonging and pride, as well as safety and responsibility.

Also announced this week was the next Picnic Day parade marshal: Paul Cody, Ed.D. ’17, senior research associate in Student Affairs and formerly a longtime staff advisor for Picnic Day.

The Picnic Day board’s news release cited Cody’s “28 years of dedicated service to UC Davis, his commitment to the student experience and his reputation for positively impacting the campus community.”

“Dr. Cody's care and dedication to serving the community truly captures the spirit of Picnic Day,” Vo said.

More information about Picnic Day will be posted to the event’s website in coming months.