

Student & Org - Led Events
In addition to our Premier Events, HSSU comes alive with Community Events hosted by student organizations, academic departments, and alumni groups.
These activities add unique flavor to the week, from mixers and showcases to service projects and socials, reflecting the creativity and spirit of our Hornet community.
Explore our full lineup of Premier Events for even more Homecoming excitement.
Friday, October 10
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Follies Variety Showcase
Thursday, Oct. 15 | HGA Main Auditorium | 6:30pm
The Hornet community lights up the stage in a spirited showcase of music, comedy, and creativity. Faculty, staff, and students share their talents in a lively performance full of surprises. The Follies are a reminder that Hornet pride shines brightest when we celebrate together. -
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
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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
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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.