You are using an outdated browser. For a faster, safer browsing experience, upgrade for free today.

Homecoming Week

homecoming logoKick off the spring semester with a week of excitement and tradition! Enjoy banner and talent contests, bonfires and live performances - culminating in a lively tailgate where the Homecoming King, Queen and courts are crowned. Don't miss this unforgettable welcome back celebration!

 

Homecoming Week 2026
February 2-7, 2026
"Under the Blue & Gold Top"

 

Under the Blue & Gold Top, we celebrate Homecoming 2026!

The tent is up and the fun begins — competitions, spirit, and Lander pride all week long. 

The tent is open, the lights are shining, and the greatest show on campus is ready to roll. Get ready for a week packed with spirit, competition, and all the fun of the circus — with that signature Lander pride.

 

 

Student Events

 

Tuesday, February 3 

Mr and Mrs BearcatMr. & Mrs. Bearcat Vow Renewal
FULL PHOTO GALLERY

 

 

 

 

 

student in dodgeball gameDodgeball Game

FULL PHOTO GALLERY

 

 

 

 

 

Wednesday, February 4

students in big wheel raceBring Your Own Big Wheels

FULL PHOTO GALLERY 

 

 

 

 

students performing in showcaseShowcase

FULL PHOTO GALLERY 

 

 

 

 

 

Thursday, February 5

students at trivia nightTrivia Night

 FULL PHOTO GALLERY

 

 

 

 

 

HOMECOMING WEEKEND

 

 

Saturday, February 7

child with Mr and Mrs BearcatFamily Day
FULL PHOTO GALLERY

 

 

 

 

 

people tailgatingTailgating

 FULL PHOTO GALLERY

 

 

 

 

 

mens basketball gameHomecoming Basketball Games

FULL PHOTO GALLERY

Alumni Information

The Alumni Association is excited to welcome home all Lander University alumni for a fun weekend of Homecoming activities, socials and class reunion events. 

 

You can find alumni-related Homecoming information, including alumni event registration forms, recommended hotel accommodations and more through the Office of Alumni Affairs. Contact alumni@lander.edu or call 864-388-8351 with any questions.

 

Family Day

Family Day will be celebrated as part of the Homecoming Weekend festivities. Come enjoy carnival themed activities, games, and fun for all ages under the Blue and Gold Top - plus special family-only activities, including our highly anticipated Dad Joke-Off!

 

Homecoming Tailgating Guidelines

A signature tradition of every Lander Homecoming is Saturday tailgating! It’s the perfect setting for pre-game activities, where alumni of all ages join with current students for great food and fellowship on the campus front lawn.

Participating groups, organizations and attendees are expected to follow these guidelines and procedures so that all guests can enjoy the Homecoming Tailgate Zone safely and responsibly.

  • All students are invited to join in the tailgate activities! Activities include photo opportunities, lawn games, food trucks, and live performances!
  • Set up may begin at 8:00AM. Tailgate will begin at 10:00AM.
  • Only student organizations and Homecoming teams are invited to utilize the tent and table spaces marked for group tailgating on this map. Registration is not required to participate in tailgate.
    • Tailgating Spaces: Tailgating spaces are first come, first serve for student organizations and teams.
    • Tables: Tables will be set up on the front lawn. 
    • Tents: You are welcome to bring free standing tents for your group. Tents may not be staked to the ground. If the tent is not free standing, it must be weighed down.
    • Food and Grilling: Students may provide their own food during tailgate. Grills can only be used on pavement. The Dining Hall will be open Saturday, February 7 during tailgate.
    • Music: No additional music or speakers may be used during the tailgate.
  • All local, state, and federal laws, as well as University policies and procedures must be followed by all Lander faculty, staff, and students, as well as their guests. Any individuals not following policies and procedures will be escorted from campus by Lander University Police Department.
    • No smoking, vaping, or use of tobacco products is allowed on Lander University property.
    • No alcohol is permitted on campus unless it is sold by approved vendors to individuals 21 years old or older.
  • Tailgate officially ends at 1:30PM. All spaces must be cleared by 2:30PM.

All tailgating plans are subject to the university’s approval; these policies may be altered to ensure the safety of participants or for the protection of university property.

Homecoming Competition Packet & Resources

Who can participate in Homecoming?
Participation in Homecoming Week is open to:

  • Registered student organizations
  • Greek organizations
  • Athletic teams
  • Groups of friends
  • Any registered team of Lander University students

Homecoming rules for each event, as well as general rules, are in the information packet. All participants are responsible for reading and abiding by all rules. The Department of Campus Engagement reserves the right to make any changes to the rules or this document at any time before, during, or after Homecoming week. If you should have any questions, please contact the Office of Campus Engagement at 864-388-8244 or via email at homecoming@lander.edu or studentlife@lander.edu.

 

Homecoming Packet
All event information, including schedules, rules, scoring, deadlines, and expectations, is outlined in the official Homecoming Packet.

Gallery