Homecoming is a century-old tradition in many high schools and colleges all across the United States. What originated as a way to welcome back former students has evolved into an annual event where students and faculty members alike participate in various activities.
What grade homecoming is tends to vary from school to school, but generally speaking, it’s an event that any student from grades 9 to 12 can attend. It’s geared towards high school students, and it’s supposed to give them a chance to socialize with people outside of their usual social circles.
In this article, we are going to explain what homecoming is, how it started, and why it’s so popular in high schools.
What Is Homecoming?
Homecoming began in the early 20th century when the University of Missouri invited alumni to attend a football game in 1911. It was the first homecoming event which included both a parade and a football game, which is what contributed to its immense popularity.
Over time, it turned into an annual tradition at schools and colleges across the country. The homecoming we have today includes tons of different activities, including pep rallies, picnics, tailgate parties, and, of course, the highly anticipated dances where people wear their best homecoming dresses (you can see examples of how elaborate these can be here).
What’s the Point of Homecoming?
The purpose of homecoming is to help students, alumni, and faculty members come together to celebrate, take pride in their school, and just have a good time. It helps new students ease into the school year and gives them a sense of belonging. It offers them a chance to socialize with new people, especially the other students with whom they’ll be spending the academic year.
For many seniors, homecoming is perhaps the last time they get to hang out with their classmates before they leave for college.
For alumni who are coming back, homecoming is an opportunity to relive their memories of school days and reconnect with old friends and teachers.
Most importantly, homecoming is a way for schools to celebrate their achievements and acknowledge the contributions of students, faculty, and alumni.
Homecoming Traditions
During homecoming, there are a variety of activities that students can participate in, from football games and parades to pep rallies and dances. A formal dance is often the highlight of the event, and it is usually during this occasion that the homecoming king and queen are crowned.
Football games are also considered the central events of homecoming. The school’s team competes against a rival, and sometimes, the homecoming king and queen are crowned during halftime.
Tailgate parties are also quite popular during homecoming festivities. They usually take place before the football game and involve students and alumni setting up tents in streets near the stadium, where they enjoy food, drinks, and socializing before the game begins.
Homecoming events also have themed parties or dress-up days where students and sometimes faculty members dress according to a particular theme each day of the week leading up to the main homecoming event.
Other homecoming activities include parades, pep rallies, picnics, alumni band performances, and competitions.
Why Is Homecoming So Popular in High School?
One of the reasons why homecoming is so popular in high schools is simply because it’s a very old tradition that’s rooted in celebrating school spirit and pride. It fosters a sense of community among students, alumni, and faculty members.
Plus, all the activities that take place during homecoming give students a break from their usual routine, allowing them to unwind and have fun. From participating in themed parties to attending the dance and cheering at the football game, homecoming gives students the opportunity to bond with their fellow classmates and make new friends.
What’s Homecoming at Your School Like?
Different schools have different homecoming traditions. Some have big pep rallies with performances and competitions, while others mostly just focus on the football game and the tailgate parties.
For students in grade 9 to grade 12, homecoming is a great way to meet new people and make new memories with their friends. It’s a time when everyone comes together to celebrate the school spirit and take pride in all its achievements.
Some students just love to cheer at the football game, while others look forward to dancing with their high school sweetheart.
Homecoming started as a way to welcome back former students while watching a football game, but because of its success, it evolved into a yearly tradition that is now celebrated by high schools and colleges all over the United States.