Homecoming
2022 dates announced
The University of Kansas will celebrate its 110th Homecoming Sept. 26-Oct. 1, culminating in the KU football game against Iowa State Oct. 1.

Call for Programs
Homecoming Sponsors
As a proud sponsor of KUAA, Best Western Plus – West Lawrence is the Parents HQ for students and families. KUAA Members receive 20% off every stay. Parents receive 20% off during campus visits, move-in days, Parents Weekend, graduation, and sports events. FREE hot breakfast, indoor pool, fitness center, pet-friendly. Adjacent to Rock Chalk Park.
As a proud sponsor of KUAA, Best Western Plus – West Lawrence is the Parents HQ for students and families. KUAA Members receive 20% off every stay. Parents receive 20% off during campus visits, move-in days, Parents Weekend, graduation, and sports events. FREE hot breakfast, indoor pool, fitness center, pet-friendly. Adjacent to Rock Chalk Park.
Central Bank of the Midwest is the Community Banking Partner for the University of Kansas. They will operate a new bank branch in the Kansas Union, making it the fifth branch in Lawrence. Central Bank has been serving businesses and customers since 1902 on a strong foundation of people, community service and technology. The bank is a more than $20 billion financial institution with more than 250 locations in more than 90 communities serving consumers and businesses in Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Oklahoma, Tennessee, North Carolina, Colorado Iowa and Florida.
At Konica Minolta we’ve always done things differently, from our cameras helping capture the world from space for the first time, to developing the world’s first finger-measurement pulse oximeter. We’re innovation obsessed, constantly refining and improving the way the world works across the technology, healthcare and imaging industries. Together we believe we can work ever smarter to provide answers to the challenges of tomorrow.
Schedule Overview
Homecoming Origin
On November 23, 1912, KU played its first Homecoming football game against well-established rivals the Missouri Tigers. At a bonfire in front of Fraser Hall the Friday before the game, the ceremonial burning of a wooden tiger riled KU students. The next day, in front of 9,000 cheering fans, the Jayhawks defeated Missouri 12-3. For years, it was custom to play Missouri for every other Homecoming game.
A Rich History
A Rich History
In 1925, the first Homecoming Queen was crowned at KU, but the ceremony did not become tradition until 1933. A new queen was crowned each year until 1969, when anti-war demonstrations and stormy race relations led to the committee’s decision that it was “more appropriate to recognize those who embody the academic spirit for which this community was established.” The Ex.C.E.L. Award now recognizes two students with outstanding leadership, involvement and academics. Two more awards have since been created: the Spirit of 1912 Award honors KU graduates for lifelong commitment to the University; and the Jennifer Alderdice Homecoming Award recognizes current students who demonstrate outstanding loyalty and dedication. Learn more about Homecoming awards.

Homecoming Themes

Homecoming Traditions
A century later, some traditions and events remain while others have become Homecoming lore. Hobo Day was an integral part of celebrations in the 1920s, complete with costumes, pep rallies and street theatre. A student talent show called Jayhawk Follies has evolved into today’s Jayhawk Jingles. The 1971 game against Kansas State unveiled a second KU mascot when Baby Jay hatched during halftime.
Today, students spend Homecoming Week participating in campus activities that build spirit and benefit the Lawrence community. By Saturday, they are ready to showcase their floats in the annual parade down Jayhawk Boulevard and cheer the Jayhawks to another Homecoming victory.
In 2011, Rich and Judy Billings of Lakewood, Colo., both 1957 KU graduates, created an endowment to fund future editions of Homecoming.
The KU Alumni Association serves as the primary host of the Steering Committee with the support of the entire KU campus and Lawrence community. The committee consists of 10 students and two advisers from the KU Alumni Association.
Marching Jayhawks
Marching Jayhawks
Mark your calendar for a live-streamed performance by the Marching Jayhawks at 5:40 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 2, ending with a Team KC flyover at 6 p.m.
moreKYou Networking Week
KYou Networking Week
One Jayhawk connection can change your world! Find virtual events to connect with fellow ’Hawks in a variety of industries.
moreHomecoming Shirts
Homecoming Shirts
Commemorate Homecoming and add to your collection with this year’s T-shirt, available in-store or online from the KU Bookstore.
moreVirtual Bingo
Virtual Bingo
Our free virtual Homecoming Bingo event brings Jayhawks together for a week-long game full of prizes, fun and nostalgia.
moreHadl, Sayers honored
Bridges
Bridges is KU’s new marketplace for connecting students and recent grads to real-world, experiential projects that benefit businesses.
moreScavenger Hunt
Scavenger Hunt
Test your knowledge of Mount Oread’s art, icons and statues in our virtual Homecoming scavenger hunt—you can play whether you’re near or far.
moreAwards
Awards
Three Homecoming awards recognize outstanding students and alumni each year: the Ex.C.E.L. Award, the Spirit of 1912 Award, and the Jennifer Alderdice Homecoming Award.
moreFun Facts
Fun Facts
Do you know when KU’s first Homecoming Parade was held? Have you heard of Dandelion Day? Learn more fun facts from past Homecoming celebrations.
morePast Themes
Past Themes
KU introduced Homecoming themes in 1956. The first theme was “Songs for Victory.” The theme provides a basis for the week’s celebrations and helps guide events.
moreFootball Games
Football Games
Find a complete record of past KU Homecoming football games including KU’s opponent, game scores, head coaches, attendance numbers and other fun facts.
moreContact Us
Have questions? Let us know.
Call
800.584.2957
Address
1266 Oread Ave.
Lawrence Kansas 66045