If you went to high school in the U.S., chances are you’ve either heard of or experienced this time-honored tradition. But if you’re wondering what is homecoming, why it’s such a big deal, or how it all started, you’re in the right place.
The week-long festivities typically include pep rallies, spirit days, and parades, all culminating in the big game. It’s more than just about cheering on the team; it’s a chance for everyone to feel a part of something bigger, a moment to celebrate what makes your school unique.
What Is Homecoming?
When you hear the term homecoming, you might picture the glitz of the dance or the hype of the football game, but it’s a lot more than that. What is homecoming? At its core, homecoming is a school event that brings together students, teachers, alumni, and the community for a shared celebration. Held annually in the fall, this tradition dates back to the early 20th century and was initially created by colleges to welcome alumni back to campus for a football game. Over time, high schools adopted the tradition, adding their own spin with events that cater specifically to their students.
In high schools across the U.S., homecoming is one of the most anticipated times of the year. Not only does it mark a major moment in the school calendar, but it’s also a week-long series of events, making it more than just a single evening. There are themed dress-up days, hallway decorating contests, and pep rallies that hype up the entire school. And of course, the culmination of all this excitement is the dance, where students can dress up, let loose, and celebrate the season with their friends.
A Brief History of Homecoming
Homecoming might seem like just another school event, but it actually has deep roots in American tradition. The origins of homecoming date back to the early 1900s, when universities across the country started organizing events to welcome back their alumni. While there’s some debate over which school hosted the very first homecoming, the University of Missouri, Baylor University, and the University of Illinois are often credited with starting the trend in the early 1910s. These events were centered around a big football game, giving former students a chance to return to campus, reconnect with their peers, and show their school pride.
By the 1920s, high schools began to adopt this tradition, shifting it to better suit their own student bodies. While the original purpose was to bring alumni home, high school homecomings became more about building a sense of community among current students. The event evolved into a week-long celebration of school spirit, complete with pep rallies, parades, and, of course, the all-important football game. The tradition has only grown over the decades, becoming a staple of high school culture in the U.S.
What Happens During Homecoming Week?
Homecoming week is where the real fun begins. The entire school gets involved in the spirit week, which typically includes themed days where students dress up according to fun and sometimes wacky prompts. Whether it’s “Twin Day” or “Decade Day,” these moments allow students to show off their creativity while fostering a strong sense of camaraderie.
Pep rallies are another key part of the festivities. Held in the school gym or stadium, these high-energy events are designed to pump up the crowd ahead of the big game. Cheerleaders, the marching band, and student athletes take center stage, while the rest of the school cheers them on. It’s a time to show your school pride and get excited for the week’s main events.
For many schools, the homecoming parade is a cherished tradition. This event usually takes place on the Friday of homecoming week and includes floats created by various student organizations, the marching band, and the homecoming court. The parade winds through the streets of the town or city, often bringing in the community to celebrate alongside the students. It’s a colorful, spirited display that caps off a week of excitement.
The Homecoming Football Game
Arguably the biggest event of homecoming week is the football game. This is when all the hype from spirit week builds to its peak. The game usually takes place on Friday night under the lights, drawing students, alumni, teachers, and community members to the stadium. Even if you’re not typically a football fan, this game is one that everyone attends. It’s more than just a sporting event—it’s a gathering that brings the school community together in a unique way.
During the game, there are often special traditions that make it even more memorable. The homecoming court is introduced at halftime, and the king and queen are crowned. The cheerleaders and band keep the energy high, ensuring that the crowd stays engaged no matter what’s happening on the field. And win or lose, it’s an opportunity to rally around the school and show off your school spirit.
The Homecoming Dance
While the football game might be the centerpiece of the week, the dance is often the highlight for many students. Held on Saturday night, the homecoming dance is typically a semi-formal affair where students dress up and dance the night away with their friends. It’s a chance to celebrate the end of a busy week in style.
Unlike prom, which tends to be more formal, the homecoming dance is often a bit more relaxed. Students might wear cocktail dresses or suits, but the atmosphere is more about fun than glamour. A DJ or live band provides the music, and the dance floor is usually packed with students enjoying the night. For many, it’s the perfect way to wrap up homecoming week and create memories that last long after high school.
Why Is Homecoming Important?
Homecoming holds a special place in the hearts of students and alumni alike. For current students, it’s a time to build school spirit, bond with classmates, and take part in traditions that go back generations. It’s a week filled with excitement, creativity, and a shared sense of belonging. And while the events themselves are fun, the real value of homecoming lies in the way it brings people together.
For alumni, homecoming is a chance to reconnect with their old school, catch up with former classmates, and relive some of their favorite high school memories. It’s a tradition that ties the past and present together, creating a sense of continuity that spans generations.
So when someone asks what is homecoming, the answer goes beyond football games and dances. It’s about community, tradition, and the shared experiences that define our high school years.