It’s that time of year again. HBCU Homecoming season is officially underway!Â
Throughout the nation, alumni, students, families, and college communitie are gathering across the country to celebrate the biggest family reunions of the year. Homecoming is more than just a party; it’s a time to take pride in your HBCU, connect with alumni, and celebrate the rich traditions and culture that define these institutions. Whether you’re attending for the thrilling football games or the unforgettable tailgates, there’s no better way to experience the essence of HBCU life. Let’s take a look at the top 5 HBCU Homecomings you must attend!
5. Spelhouse (Spelman College & Morehouse College)Â
Spelman College and Morehouse College, two prestigious HBCUs, join forces to create a homecoming experience that showcases the best of Black excellence and unity at its finest. The schools are located in the historic heart of Georgia, Atlanta.Â
Founded in 1881, Spelman College serves as the top HBCU for Black women college in the US. Spelman has contributed to the education and empowerment of many Black women while maintaining a strong commitment to leadership and social justice. Throughout its history, Spelman College has produced a wide range of alumni who have had major achievements in a variety of fields, including the award-winning actress Angela Bassett, who starred in movies like Black Panther and What’s Love Got to Do with It.Â
Established in 1867, Morehouse College is the only HBCU in the US that is exclusively for men. Morehouse has a long history of producing notable leaders, such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., by emphasizing the development of men who are dedicated to serving others and have high moral values.Â
Their joint homecoming attracts thousands in Atlanta! The highlight of Spelhouse is undeniably the homecoming concert, which consistently attracts major celebrities. Atlanta’s status as a cultural hub for talent and Black music attracts top artists in the industry. In recent years, Spelhouse had performances by JT, Lil Durk, and 21 Savage.Â
On game day, students and alumni get together to watch the Morehouse Maroon Tigers. It is a festive experience filled with camaraderie and reconnection between the women of Spelman and the men of Morehouse. This joint homecoming wonderfully portrays the essence of the HBCU family experience.
4. Howard UniversityÂ
Howard University, known as The Mecca, has been a stellar example of HBCU excellence since its establishment in 1867. The university boasts a list of notable alumni including Taraji P. Henson, Chadwick Boseman, Thurgood Marshall and Kamala Harris. Known for its dedication to social justice and academic accomplishments, Howard’s homecoming is one of the most anticipated events in the HBCU community, drawing in thousands of former students, current students and supporters from all over the country. This year Howard commemorated their 100-year anniversary with the theme “Yard of Fame” recognizing the achievements of past alumni and the upcoming pioneers influencing our world.Â
What sets Howard’s homecoming apart is its unmatched vibrancy and cultural significance, highlighted by the iconic location in the heart of Washington, D.C. The festivities begin with a Homecoming Parade, displaying the creativity and energy of students and groups, followed by the highly anticipated Homecoming Concert, which consistently features top-tier artists, ensuring a star-studded lineup that amplifies the excitement.Â
One special custom that encapsulates the essence of the university is the Greek Step Show. Howard University is the founding place of five, out of the nine Black Greek letter organizations. The Step Show is a tribute to a rooted legacy that attracts large crowds eager to honor the commitment and creativity of the performers. Â
The highlight of Howard’s homecoming is undoubtedly game day! Following the excitement of the game, attendees gather at the tailgate– known as the “Blaque Mecca Block Party,” a lively gathering that features captivating music performances and a variety of food trucks, creating a sense of community and celebration. The festivities often extend into the night, with countless activities to explore in vibrant Washington, D.C. With its rich traditions and high-energy atmosphere, Howard’s homecoming truly encapsulates the spirit of connection and celebration.Â
3. Hampton University
Hampton University, established in 1868, is a prestigious HBCU located along the picturesque coast of Virginia. Known for its dedication to being the standard of excellence, Hampton attracts a diverse student body from across the nation. The university’s rich history includes the historic Emancipation Oak, where formerly enslaved individuals gathered to learn to hear the reading of the Emancipation Proclamation and rejoice in their newfound freedom. Â
Hampton’s homecoming is a highly anticipated event that highlights the university’s strong sense of pride in class and community spirit! A key feature of their homecoming is the Day Party in the Student Center, held from 12 PM to 5 PM, where students come together to party, connect with alumni, and shop with vendors. One of the standout moments at Hampton’s homecoming are the annual viral videos of Hamptonians dancing to “Swag Surf” proudly representing their respective classes– Ogre, Onyx or Quintessence! The vibrant party scene along with Hamptons stunning view of the sea, offers a truly memorable experience.  Â
What truly sets Hampton’s homecoming apart is the strong emphasis on alumni connection. Hampton alumni share an affection for their alma mater and frequently come back in large numbers to join in the celebration. Recently the university has put in a lot of effort to organize a number of homecoming activities, for both alumni and current students making sure that everyone is part of the festivities. This year, the alumni had their own concert; featuring artists such as Tamia and Rick Ross.
From spirited competitions between classes to engaging events that honor the university’s traditions, Hampton’s homecoming encapsulates the essence of HBCU culture.Â
2. Southern University
Southern University, located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is one of the largest HBCUs in the nation, with an energetic community of students and alumni. Its homecoming is a standout occasion on the HBCU Homecoming calendar each year, bringing together a vibrant community of alumni and supporters each year.
At the heart of Southern’s homecoming is the legendary Southern University Human Jukebox. Known for its precision and showmanship, the band is considered one of the best among over 100 HBCUs.Their shows are captivating featuring innovative and precise formations while showcasing a diverse range of music genres from traditional marching tunes to modern hits. Fans often playfully mention that watching the band perform is the highlight of attending the game emphasizing how integral the Human Jukebox is to the Southern homecoming experience. The Dancing Dolls, Southern’s renowned dance team, complement the band with high-energy that further elevates the performance. Together, they create an exhilarating atmosphere that celebrates Southern pride and artistry.
Southern’s homecoming also includes a vibrant parade that kicks off the game day festivities! The parade showcases the enthusiasm of the university community with floats, marching bands, local dance teams and spirited displays by student groups.Â
Southern’s homecoming is not just a celebration of sports and music; it engages connections across generations, ensuring that the legacy of Southern pride endures.Â
1. North Carolina A&T
North Carolina A&T State University was established in 1891. It is a prominent HBCU in Greensboro in North Carolina, with a vibrant student body exceeding 14,000 students members. The institution holds a rich history of advocating for justice and activism reflected through the involvement of its students, particularly the Greensboro Four. NCAT has empowered more than 70,000 alumni who continue to make valuable contributions, across diverse fields.Â
North Carolina A&T’s annual homecoming event known as GHOE (“Greatest Homecoming, on Earth”) captures the essence of an HBCU Homecoming. During homecoming week, each year the vibrant spirit and sense of community known as “Aggie Pride” is on full display across campus. Â
The core of GHOE are the events! The Homecoming Concert is one of the largest highlights, featuring major artists this year such as Bryson Tiller, Latto, and Mariah the Scientist. Another large event is the Homecoming Step Show, where National Pan-Hellenic Council fraternities and sororities compete with intricate routines, showcasing tradition, precision, and Greek unity on a grand scale.Â
Homecoming Day is a movie! The day begins and ends with excitement. from parade to the football game to the all-day tailgate, homecoming day attracts tens of thousands of visitors, from all corners of the country each year. It is an all-day family reunion with food, music, and local vendors, while alumni-exclusive events like cookouts and receptions provide opportunities for reconnecting and reminiscing.Â
The unifying force of “Aggie Pride” is what makes NCATs homecoming as “the greatest”. The pride, culture, and tradition of GHOE makes it a must-attend for anyone wanting to experience the very best of HBCU culture.
HBCU homecomings are not just parties; they are vibrant celebrations of culture, pride, and community. Each homecoming experience offers a blend of tradition and connection, making it an unforgettable occasion for students, alumni, and families. Each school showcases the essence of HBCU culture. With over 100 HBCUs to choose from, the question remains: which homecoming experience will you dive into first?