Homecoming is an iconic American tradition, celebrated with excitement and anticipation by students, alumni, and communities across the country. It’s more than just a dance or football game; it’s a symbol of school spirit, community, and nostalgia.

The term itself—"homecoming"—suggests a return, but where did it come from? And how did it evolve into the elaborate tradition we see today in high schools? To understand the full story, we need to trace the origins of this cherished event and examine how it became such a central part of high school culture.

What Does "Homecoming" Mean?

The name “homecoming” refers to the practice of welcoming back former students or alumni to their school or university. This gathering is usually marked by festivities that revolve around school spirit and the shared bond between current students and past graduates. It is quite literally a "coming home" to a place that holds fond memories for those who once walked its halls.

While homecoming now involves various elements—parades, football games, pep rallies, and dances—its primary focus is to reunite the school community. The name perfectly captures the essence of the event: the act of returning home to where friendships were made, and where a sense of belonging was first forged.

How Did Homecoming Start? Tracing Its University Roots

Before homecoming found its way into high schools, it began in American universities, where a strong sense of school pride has long been encouraged. The most common origin story credits the University of Missouri in 1911 as the birthplace of homecoming. The school's athletic director at the time, Chester Brewer, wanted to energize the student body and draw alumni back for a football game against their rival, the University of Kansas. Brewer’s idea was to have a large, organized event that would create lasting traditions and involve the whole community.

The homecoming event at the University of Missouri included a pep rally, parade, and, most importantly, the big football game. This gathering was an immediate success, sparking similar events at other colleges across the country. Schools quickly recognized that homecoming was more than just an opportunity to boost school spirit—it was a way to strengthen the connection between alumni and their alma mater.

The Spread of Homecoming to High Schools

By the 1920s and 1930s, the concept of homecoming had made its way to high schools. These institutions wanted to emulate the traditions seen in universities, particularly those that fostered a sense of community pride. High schools began organizing their own homecoming celebrations, often centered around football games, which had become popular in American culture by that time.

Homecoming was the perfect event to rally the community, bringing together students, alumni, faculty, and families. It allowed high schools to create their own traditions, with homecoming courts, parades, and dances emerging as staples of the event. The football game remained the central focus, serving as a metaphorical “battle” that showcased school pride and sportsmanship. The idea of a dance after the game added another layer of excitement, especially for students, making homecoming a much-anticipated social event.

Why Is Homecoming in the Fall?

One of the first questions after “what is homecoming” is “when is homecoming celebrated”? Homecoming is traditionally celebrated in the fall, aligning with the beginning of the football season. Football, a sport deeply intertwined with American high school and college culture, became the anchor for homecoming events. The timing of the event, often in September or October, made sense for several reasons.

First, fall marks the start of the academic year, making it an ideal time for students and alumni to gather and celebrate their shared connection to the school. Second, the fall sports season—particularly football—provides a natural focal point for the festivities. Football games draw large crowds, ensuring that the homecoming game becomes a community-wide event, rather than just a student gathering.

Key Elements of High School Homecoming

Homecoming has grown into a complex event with multiple layers, all focused on fostering school pride and unity. Below are the key elements of a typical high school homecoming celebration:

The Homecoming Football Game

At the heart of the celebration is the football game, which often features the school’s team playing a major rival. This game is not just another match; it’s usually the most attended game of the season. Alumni return to cheer for their school, and current students rally around the team, creating an electric atmosphere.

Pep Rally

Pep rallies, which often precede the game, are designed to boost school spirit. Students gather in the gym or auditorium for speeches, performances by cheerleaders, and chants led by student leaders. The energy at these events is infectious, preparing both players and fans for the big game.

Homecoming Court and Royalty

One of the most popular traditions is the crowning of a homecoming king and queen. Typically, students vote for their peers to be on the homecoming court, and the winners are announced at halftime of the football game or during the dance. Being crowned homecoming royalty is considered an honor and a symbol of popularity and school involvement.

Homecoming Parade

In many communities, the homecoming parade is a key event. Floats designed by different student groups, marching bands, and even alumni take part in the procession. These parades are usually held in the streets around the school and feature plenty of school colors, mascots, and cheers. The parade serves as a way to engage the entire community, not just students and alumni.

The Homecoming Dance

Perhaps the most anticipated event for students is the homecoming dance, usually held the night after the football game. This semi-formal dance is where students dress up in homecoming gowns and suits, dance with friends, and celebrate the week’s events. The homecoming dance is often compared to prom but with a more relaxed atmosphere, and it’s open to all grade levels.

The Evolution of Homecoming

While the core elements of homecoming have remained consistent over the years, the celebration has evolved. Modern homecoming often includes additional activities like spirit week, where students participate in themed days leading up to the big game. Some schools have even expanded the homecoming festivities to include events for the entire week, creating an extended celebration of school pride.

Technology has also played a role in the evolution of homecoming. With social media, students can now share the excitement of the event with a wider audience, and alumni who may not be able to attend can still feel connected to their alma mater.

Why Homecoming Still Matters

Homecoming is more than just a football game or a dance; it’s a celebration of shared history, memories, and pride. For high schools, it serves as a way to build school spirit, create traditions, and bring together past and present members of the school community. The sense of belonging fostered during homecoming events stays with students long after they graduate.

As long as schools continue to prioritize the values of community, pride, and tradition, homecoming will remain a cherished event. It connects generations, strengthens the ties between students and alumni, and reminds everyone of the significance of their time spent in school. The name itself, “homecoming,” encapsulates what the event is truly about—a return to a place where lifelong memories were made.