Join us as we celebrate Homecoming 2025 with throwback flair, nodding to the iconic fashion, energy, and music of the era that brought us flip phones, velour tracksuits, and HSSU’s transformation into a university.

In 2005, Harris-Stowe State College became Harris-Stowe State University, expanding its academic reach and cementing its role as a beacon of education and empowerment in St. Louis. This Homecoming marks 20 years as a university, and nearly 170 years of institutional legacy since our founding in 1857 as the St. Louis Normal School.

From pep rallies to coronation, tailgates to talent shows —
we’re celebrating in true Hornet style. It’s not just a party. It’s a legacy.

Premier Homecoming Events

Our Premier Events are the highlights of Homecoming Week. These marquee traditions — from Pep Rally and Coronation to the Midwest March Down and Presidential Tailgate — unite the entire Hornet family. They honor our legacy, showcase our pride, and bring the full campus and alumni community together in celebration.

Be sure to also explore the many Community Events hosted by students, orgs, and departments throughout the week.

Friday, October 10

  • Pre - Homecoming Prep Rally

    Board of Regents Gymnasium | 3pm
    Kick off Homecoming Week with Hornet pride at its peak! The Pep Rally brings together students, alumni, faculty, and fans for performances, giveaways, and electrifying school spirit. Expect music, cheers, and a high-energy celebration that sets the tone for the week ahead. It’s the perfect way to reconnect, show your Hornet pride, and launch a Homecoming like no other.

  • Powder Puff Football Game

    The Quad | 6pm
    A fierce and fun Homecoming tradition! Watch Hornet women take the field in a competitive flag football matchup full of teamwork, strategy, and campus spirit. With classmates and fans cheering from the sidelines, the Powder Puff Game is always one of the week’s most spirited highlights.

  • Fresh Ideas Chili Cook-Off

    The Quad | 6pm
    Warm up your evening with a taste of tradition at the Chili Cook-Off. Campus chefs, students, and organizations serve their best recipes in a flavorful competition where the crowd helps pick the winners. Come hungry, leave proud, and be part of this delicious Homecoming favorite.

Saturday, October 11

  • Field Day

    The Quad | 1pm
    Celebrate community the old-school way with classic games, competitions, and outdoor fun. Field Day brings students, alumni, and families together for friendly challenges, team spirit, and plenty of laughs. It’s a perfect afternoon of connection and Hornet pride.

  • Men's Soccer vs Mission University

    Hornet Field | 3pm
    Cheer on Hornet Soccer in their Homecoming matchup against Mission University! Pack the stands in brown and gold as our athletes take the field with determination and pride. With campus energy running high, this is more than a game—it’s Hornet legacy in action.

  • Silent Party

    Board of Regents Gymnasium | 9pm
    A party like no other! Grab your headphones, choose your channel, and dance the night away with multiple DJs spinning live. Lights, music, and a buzzing atmosphere make the Silent Party a Homecoming highlight and a favorite way to end Saturday night.

Sunday, October 12 - Monday, October 13

  • Gospel Explosion Concert

    Sunday, October 12 | 5:30pm | HGA Auditorium
    Lift your voice and spirit at this powerful evening of praise and worship. Choirs, soloists, and special guests fill the auditorium with music that inspires and uplifts. Gospel Explosion is a moving tradition that blends faith, fellowship, and Hornet pride.

  • POISE. Fashion Show: Drip Through the Legacy

    Monday, Oct. 13 | 6:30pm | HGA Auditorium
    Experience bold creativity and unforgettable style with POISE, Harris-Stowe’s premier student modeling troupe. This runway event showcases artistry, confidence, and early-2000s flair while celebrating two decades of Hornet excellence. With fashion, performance, and legacy at its core, the POISE Fashion Show is one of Homecoming’s most dynamic highlights.

Tuesday, October 14 - Wednesday, October 15

  • Hornet Volleyball Double Header (Black Out & D9 Night)

    Tuesday, Oct. 14 | Board of Regents Gymnasium
    Lane College: 2pm | Philander Smith University: 6pm

    Pack the gym in all black and rep your letters for a night of Hornet pride! Our women’s volleyball team takes on Lane College and Philander Smith University in an action-packed Homecoming double header. Fans are encouraged to wear black and show off their Divine Nine gear to light up the stands with unity, energy, and tradition. With two games, a full house, and unmatched spirit, this is the ultimate chance to cheer our Hornets to victory.

  • Roller Skating Night & Alumni Happy Hour

    Tuesday, Oct. 14 | St. Nicholas Roller Skating Rink
    Alumni Happy Hour: 5:30pm | Student Takeover: 8pm
    1805 Lucas Ave. St. Louis, MO 63103
    The rink is ours for Homecoming! Alumni kick things off with a special happy hour from 5:30–7:30 PM, reconnecting and rolling to throwback beats. Then, students take over the floor from 8:00–11:30 PM for a high-energy skate party under the lights. Music, laughter, and Hornet pride flow all night, making Roller Skating Night one of the most nostalgic and unforgettable events of the week.

  • Coronation & Post-Coronation Reception

    Wednesday, Oct. 15 | HGA Main Auditorium | 7pm
    Elegance and tradition meet as the Royal Court takes center stage. Witness the crowning of the 2025 Homecoming King and Queen in a ceremony that honors leadership, scholarship, and service. Following the coronation, join us for a celebratory reception to honor the newly crowned Royal Court. This evening blends legacy, excellence, and Hornet pride in one of Homecoming’s most cherished traditions.

Thursday, October 16

  • Homecoming Talent Show: Follies Throwback Edition

    Thursday, Oct. 15 | HGA Main Auditorium | 6:30pm

    Think you’ve got what it takes to wow the crowd? Students, faculty, and staff are invited to showcase their skills in the Homecoming Talent Show. From music and dance to comedy and spoken word — this is your moment to shine!

    This year’s showcase will feature a special throwback theme, so bring your best early-2000s style and talents to the stage. Whether you’re rocking velour tracksuits, retro sneakers, or paying homage through music and performance, the night promises fun, laughter, and unforgettable Hornet pride.

    Click here to sign up

  • Bonfire & Laser Light Show

    Thurs. Oct. 16 | The Quad | 9:00pm
    Gather under the stars for one of Homecoming’s most beloved traditions. A roaring bonfire sets the scene while a dazzling laser light show brings a modern twist. Music, lights, and camaraderie make this an unforgettable night on the Quad.

Friday, October 17

  • Annual Midwest March Down

    Friday. Oct. 17 | HGA Main Auditorium | 6:00pm
    Presented by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Alpha Eta Chapter, the Midwest March Down is Homecoming’s premier step competition and a true celebration of Divine Nine culture. Teams from across the region bring precision, energy, and creativity to the stage in a ticketed event that blends tradition, pride, and community. With stomps, chants, and powerful performances, the March Down is more than a showcase—it’s an electrifying highlight of the Homecoming experience.

  • Alumni Awards Luncheon

    Vashon Upper Gallery | 11am
    Celebrate Hornets who are leading, serving, and making an impact in their fields and communities. The Alumni Awards Luncheon honors distinguished graduates, including the 40 Under 40 recipients, for their achievements and commitment to excellence. This annual gathering brings together alumni, faculty, and friends for recognition, networking, and inspiration. With stories of success and legacy at the forefront, the luncheon is a proud reminder of the strength and reach of the HSSU alumni community.

    → Submit Your Nominations

Saturday, October 18

  • Presidential Homecoming Tailgate

    Compton Avenue | 11:00am
    The annual Presidential Homecoming Tailgate is the ultimate Hornet block party! Students, alumni, and families gather with President Collins-Smith for food, music, and Hornet pride before the big games. Year after year, this tradition remains one of Homecoming’s most anticipated highlights.

  • Women’s Basketball vs. Jefferson College

    Board of Regents Gymnasium | 3:00pm
    The Lady Hornets defend their home court in an action-packed Homecoming matchup. With fans packing the stands, this showdown against Jefferson College is bound to be filled with energy, determination, and Hornet pride.

  • Men’s Basketball vs. Jefferson College

    Board of Regents Gymnasium | 5:00pm
    Homecoming reaches its peak as Hornet Men’s Basketball battles Jefferson College. A spirited crowd, fierce competition, and campus pride make this the perfect finale to a weeklong celebration of legacy and tradition.