It’s that time of year again: college students are returning to school, the football season is warming up, and now it’s time for the long-established tradition of homecoming! A weekend full of seeing old friends, tailgating, football, and good food. If you’re considering a homecoming party, look no further. We’re here to help you plan a pre-homecoming party that will be talked about all year long!
History
The homecoming tradition has been traced back to the Missouri-Kansas football game in 1911, or at least according to Jeopardy. The Missouri football coach invited alums to come back for the football game. Other universities debate whether Missouri started this tradition or not (you know college rivalries). In the meantime, we’ll take ‘college history for $200,’ please Alex!
Many things have changed since 1911, but the purpose of homecoming hasn’t. At the heart of it, homecoming is a chance for current students, alums, and the local community to come together. For many universities, the festivities last a whole week; for others, it’s just the weekend of a big football game. During this week, there may be festive parades, pep rallies, alum events, tailgating parties, and, if your school has a team, a big football game.
Pre-Party Traditions
Some colleges have their own unique traditions for homecoming, but overall, here are a few basics to consider.
What to Wear
If you’re returning to your alma mater for homecoming, it’s a great time to wear your college colors with pride; check out our officially licensed university apparel to find your distinct style. A t-shirt and jeans are always comfortable for whatever activities the day may bring. Don’t forget those coordinating layers to dress up or dress down your look accordingly.
Decoration ideas
Setting up fun decorations as a host creates a vibe and gets everyone in a celebratory mood. People will be dressed in their collegiate best, so why not give them a great backdrop to take photos? Homecoming is about making memories and catching up (oh, and football!)
Food Ideas
We know when it comes to homecoming food, your mouth starts watering. It’s best to pick items that appeal to the most people, such as homemade guacamole, mini sandwiches, and tasty brownies for dessert. We found a few amazing recipes if you’re unsure where to start at the Taste of Home’s “40 Tailgating Recipes” article.
Drink Ideas
Although the mornings might be getting crisper, it’s important to have a variety of warm and cool drinks no matter the weather. Put on a fresh cup of coffee with optional pumpkin spice mix for an autumnal flare. Or make a custom cocktail or mocktail with your collegiate colors. For those who are of age, you can’t go wrong with local beer.
Party Activities
Once everyone has caught up and had food, it’s time to enjoy the celebration with some games. If it’s an event where friends and family may not know each other, yard games are a fantastic way to get everyone chatting and connecting. Here are a few great, customizable game suggestions.
Corn Hole
This classic backyard game is a perfect way to celebrate. You can create a corn hole competition of your own before the big game. Pick colored bean bags that go with your college or alma mater to take the set to the next level.
Fast Four
An oversized version is an opportune way for people of all ages to be included in the festivities. Fast Four isn’t only fun for those playing, but for everyone viewing this oversized game.
Topple Tower
Kick back with a few beers or cocktails and stack these custom blocks. Topple Tower is a yard game that can be used again for birthday parties, weddings, or Saturday nights!
Frisbee
Feel like you’re back on your college quad when you start throwing around a new Frisbee with your old friends. Your college memories will start flooding back as you imagine you’re a college student again.
So, as you start organizing your homecoming weekend, remember these ideas for your pre-homecoming party! This week is about reconnecting with friends and family from your college days. If you have any homecoming traditions or plans, share them in the comments.
Lucy is a Content Specialist at Zazzle in Cork, Ireland. Originally from America, she is now settled in Ireland with her husband and Corgi-mix puppy Dug (yes, like from Disney’s UP!). It’s the simple things in life that matter, so give her a bag of M&M’s and she’s happy. She loves to relax with a good book, cozy up on the couch for a movie, or go to the park for a stroll with the family.
