Gone to Texas rolls out UT welcome mat

AUSTIN (KXAN) - "Gone to Texas" will roll out the welcome mat Tuesday night in preparation for the start of the new school year for thousands of new students at the University of Texas.

The annual event brings a swarm of students on the 40 acres, where the big event kicks off with speakers and music.

An event that started 15 years ago, it's a way to introduce students to the traditions at the University of Texas. It's something inspired by a chapter in Texas history.

More than 200 years ago, pioneers looking for a fresh start were said to have etched three letters on homestead doors revealing their destinations: GTT. The three letters let people know they had Gone to Texas.

And it's all part of what students will see Tuesday night from live student performances and the ever-popular Gone To Texas video competition.

This year's video contest winners will be announced at the event, and President Bill Powers will welcome the students.

There will be other guest speakers, live performances and a finale from the Longhorn Band.

It all kicks off at 8:30 p.m. and is expected to be a busy, but fun, night.