Homecoming season is right around the corner, and if you haven’t started preparing physically, financially, and spiritually yet, then you’re behind the eight ball. But don’t worry, The Root has your covered with everything you have to know about the upcoming HBCU homecoming season.
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Why Is HBCU Homecoming so Important?
In order to prepare for homecoming, you have to first understand its cultural significance. It’s demanding to pinpoint which HBCU was the first to kick off homecoming celebrations, but the festivities can be traced all the way back to the Roaring ‘20s.
A hundred years ago, Howard University held its first ever homecoming football game against Lincoln University in 1924. Obviously, the concept of homecoming didn’t begin on HBCU campuses, but in true Black American fashion, we definitely made it our own and turned it all the way up!
When Does the Fun Begin?
HBCU Homecoming usually centers around each school’s football season. Because of this, the NCAA puts together an annual list of every single HBCU homecoming football game and their classics… you’re welcome.
In general, homecoming for HBCUs typically happens from the start of October to the start of November. This year, Alabama State University is set to kick off HBCU Homecoming season, and they’ve already announced their concert lineup, so get your tickets now!
Jackson State University’s Miss Comp Science 1976-77 waves and smiles at the crowd during the Homecoming parade in downtown, Jackson, Mississippi.Photo: Jackson State University (Getty Images)
Jackson State University will end the homecoming season with theirs beginning on Oct. 28 and ending Nov. 2. This gives you a full month of festivities happening all across the country for you to enjoy.
What Can You Expect at an HBCU Homecoming?
The brief answer is community and loads of fun. No matter what HBCU Homecoming you go to, you can always expect a good time, but here’s the typical rundown of the main events:
- Homecoming Concert
- Alumni Parties
- Alumni On-Campus Mixer
- Greek Step Show
- Homecoming Parade
- Football Game and Halftime Performance
- Closing Chapel Service
Now, the order of these events will differ depending on the school, but in general, this is what you can look forward to no matter where you end up. HBCUs are all different, so expect each college to add their own twist and flare to their respective homecomings. Every event will be different; every year will be different. So that’s why you shouldn’t miss out on anything!
Who is Homecoming Even For?
Photo: Michael Clark
Everybody! Although most events are catered to alumni and current students of each college, don’t feel discouraged if you didn’t attend any particular school. You’ll see everybody at an HBCU homecoming, from the 60-year removed alumnus to the modern born but future HBCU graduate.
Matter of fact, you should rep your own HBCU no matter where you’re at! Even if you didn’t go to an HBCU, know that everyone has a place during homecoming.
How Do You Start Planning?
First of all, decide on which homecoming(s) you want to go to, because unfortunately, you probably can’t attend all in one season. Get together with your traveling friends, family, and college classmates to start buying your tickets to events, booking your hotels, and picking out your outfits.
Homecoming can be an overwhelming season if you don’t plan ahead, but this is your sign to get the ball rolling right now!
