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Homecoming facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

Homecoming is a special tradition where schools, colleges, and even churches welcome back their former students and members. It's a time to celebrate the history and spirit of the organization. This fun event is very popular in the United States.

What is Homecoming?

Homecoming is like a big reunion and a party all rolled into one! It's a chance for people who used to go to a school or college to come back and visit. They can see their old teachers, friends, and remember their time there. It's also a way for the school to celebrate itself and its long history.

During homecoming, you might see many exciting things. There are often parades with colorful floats, special dances, and big football games. Students and alumni (which means former students) gather to cheer on their team and show their school spirit.

History of Homecoming

The tradition of homecoming started a long time ago, in the 1800s. It began at colleges and universities, often around American football games. Schools wanted their former students to come back and watch the games. This helped keep a strong connection between the school and the people who had graduated.

Many different schools claim they held the very first modern homecoming event. For example, Baylor University, Southwestern University, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and the University of Missouri all have stories about hosting early homecoming celebrations. No matter who started it first, the idea quickly became popular. It grew into the exciting tradition we know today, celebrated by thousands of schools across the country.

Images for kids

  • 1921 Locust yearbook p. 115 (Queen of the May)

    "Queen of the May" at East Texas State Normal College in 1921, a predecessor of the modern homecoming queen

  • Homecoming1911

    The 1911 Kansas vs. Missouri football game is one of several claimed to be the first college football homecoming game.

  • Classic 07

    2007 East LA Classic Halftime show the homecoming football game. The Classic is one of the most highly acclaimed and attended high-school football games west of the Mississippi River and has taken place since 1925.

  • 14497-Homecoming Football vs McMurray-3918 (15726901335)

    The 2014 homecoming court at Texas A&M University–Commerce

  • Arlington State College, two students dressed as Roman patricians riding on homecoming float (10004199)

    Arlington State College homecoming parade float in 1965

  • 14497-Homecoming Football vs McMurray-9338 (15106869054)

    Homecoming tailgate at Texas A&M University–Commerce in 2014

  • Cornell Big Red Marching Band 2017

    Alumni join Cornell's Big Red Marching Band for Homecoming 2017

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Homecoming Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.