Homecoming 2026

Homecoming
October 17, 2026

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Homecoming week is right around the corner!

We know you've been dreaming about Homecoming and this year will be better than you imagined. Set your sights on the Hill. Mark your calendars and put in that vacation time because Washington, D.C. is calling you home. From dancing your heart out at YardFest to reconnecting at the Wine Down, let the good times roll.

Register for events now

Howard University's inaugural Homecoming game vs. Lincoln University in 1924 set a trend which sparked a national phenomenon and has become an American treasure. With its unique blend of historical homage, affirming engagement, jaw-dropping entertainment, and cultural evolution, the Howard Homecoming experience perpetually draws tens of thousands who revel in the university’s societal and intellectual influence. The week of athletic, entertainment, spiritual, academic, cultural, and community events celebrates Howard's historic exceptionalism as the nexus of intellectualism and culture, highlights the trails blazed by alumni, and uplifts the Bison who will follow in their hoofprints tomorrow. Homecoming at Howard is a singular experience that fosters connection and inspiration while honoring the university’s storied traditions and ongoing leadership in truth and service that changes the world.

Friday, October 16, 2026

Boston Richey performing in the crowd at Yardfest 2024

International YardFest Day 1 & Alumni Tent

Step into the heartbeat of Homecoming at Yard Fest, the legendary Howard tradition that brings together alumni, music, culture, and community.

Don’t miss this year's Alumni Tent—your exclusive space to relax, reconnect, and recharge. Enjoy refreshments, network with fellow Bison, and experience Homecoming from the best seat in the house.

When:
12:00pm - 6:00pm EDT

Where:
The Yard (next to Carnegie Hall)
2395 6th St NW
Washington, District of Columbia 20059

Saturday, October 18, 2026

Howard alums standing next to their Howard 100 painting

International YardFest Day 2 & Alumni Tent

Continue the fun with International Yardfest Day 2, one of Homecoming’s most beloved traditions. Stop by the Alumni Tent for refreshments, networking, and a front-row seat to all of the excitement.

When:
12:00pm - 6:00pm EDT

Where:
The Yard (next to Carnegie Hall)
2395 6th St NW
Washington, District of Columbia 20059

Young Howard alumni at brunch

Alumni VIP Day Party

The most exclusive Homecoming experience is at the Alumni VIP Day Party. Enjoy an upscale food selection, curated classics, and more! Dance the afternoon away, toast to shared memories, and make new connections.

When:
12:00pm - 3:00pm EDT

Where:
Blackburn Ballroom
2397 6th St NW
Washington, District of Columbia 20059

Howard alum dancing at the Wine Down

Wine Down Mixer

Relax in an atmosphere that blends elegance and comfort at the Wine Down Mixer. Soak in the spirit of Homecoming with friends and classmates, or simply take a quiet moment to recharge.

When:
7:00pm - 10:00pm EDT

Where:
Blackburn Ballroom
2397 6th St NW
Washington, District of Columbia 20059

Sunday, October 19, 2026

Group of 5 Howard young alumni posing for a photo at the Young Alumni Brunch

Young Alumni Brunch

Head over to Adams Morgan for the Young Alumni Brunch. Where the vibes are endless and bubbles never stop flowing. End your Homecoming experience right! Just make sure you don't miss your flight home :)

When:
1pm to 4pm

Where:
The LINE Hotel DC
1770 Euclid Street NW
Washington, District of Columbia 20009

Being a Homecoming Sponsor

Partnering with Howard University as a Homecoming Sponsor is a powerful opportunity for corporations to amplify their brand, engage with top-tier talent and activate a large community of attendees. As one of the most anticipated cultural and networking events in the nation, Howard Homecoming attracts more than 100,000 people to join us on campus each fall for this large-scale celebration. Stakeholders include thousands of students, alumni, industry leaders, faculty and staff, celebrities, and influencers. Howard University’s Homecoming provides unparalleled visibility and engagement opportunities.

Organizations interested in becoming sponsors should contact Maria Martineau at Maria.Martineau@howard.edu.

Stay Informed

FAQs

From general questions about events and logistics to parking and shuttle service, our FAQs are designed to keep you informed about Homecoming and to prepare you for an exciting weekend.

Learn more

Safety Protocols

Minimize worries and maximize safety by staying abreast of safety policies and resources. Learn about our safety guidelines, special event policies and how to download the Bison SAFE app.

Read them now

Bag Policies

As you plan for Homecoming, please note that no bags are allowed for events in Burr, Cramton and Blackburn. Bags are allowed on the Yard and in public spaces. Clear bags are allowed in Greene Stadium.

Look at the policy

Homecoming News

header image of Kahlana Barfield Brown

Parade marshal is Howard alumna and fashion expert

Kahlana Barfield Brown, alumna and founder of her own clothing line, KBB by Kahlana, leads the Homecoming Parade as grand marshal. Partnerships with national brands such as Target and Nike, have catapulted her into a fashion icon. Cheer on Brown at the parade, Saturday, October 25 at 10 a.m.

Category: Homecoming

Homecoming 2025 collage with groups of alumni celebrating Howard’s legacy

It’s time to Back The Yard!

Learn how to show your support for this year's Back the Yard campaign.

Category: Giving, Giving Challenges, Homecoming

Christopher Cross, PhD, headshot

Lavender Fund celebrates decade of impact

Christopher Cross, PhD, founded the Lavender Fund in 2015, the first officially recognized university wide LGBT fundraiser in HBCU history. A decade later, the fund has awarded more than $50,000 in scholarships to Howard students and continues to grow in reach.

Category: Beyond the Yard, Featured Stories, October 2025 Newsletter, Giving, Homecoming

Stay Connected

Homecoming 2025 collage of Howard alumni and students celebrating Howard’s legacy

Leave your mark this Homecoming.

Back the Yard Stay Informed