September 27–October 3, 2026
Once an Illini, Always an Illini!
Homecoming at Illinois is always a week to remember, so make your plans now! It's a weeklong celebration, kicking off with the Alumni Center Fountain dyeing, along with a 5K, parade, global talent show, and of course, Fighting Illini Football! Come celebrate the spirit of the Illinois FamILLy, with events all across campus.
We look forward to seeing you this year!
Schedule of Events
Kickoff Event & Pancake Breakfast
Sunday, September 27, 10 a.m.
Alice Campbell Alumni Center
Illinois Homecoming Run
Sunday, September 27, 10 a.m.
Starts at the east end of Anniversary Plaza
Global Talent Show
Tuesday, September 29, 6 p.m.
Foellinger Auditorium, Performances of music, dance, spoken word, and more from our international students.
Homecoming Parade
Friday, October 2
6:00 p.m. | Starts at 4th & Kirby and heads west on Gregory St. and South on First St.
Parade Marshal, Former Illini Football Player and Astronaut Michael Hopkins
Game Day vs. Purdue
Saturday, October 3
Gies Memorial Stadium
Saturday Night Live in Downtown Champaign
Saturday, October 3
6:00–9:00 p.m., Live music on two stages, projection art, poster screen printing, kids activities, and much more. Presented by 40 North.
Marching Illini In Concert
Sunday, October 4
Hear the Best Band in the Land perform season highlights, Oskee Wow, Illinois Loyalty, and much more at the State Farm Center.
Be sure to visit homecoming.illinois.edu as events and content will be added as the week approaches.
PLACES TO STAY
Need a place to stay for the game and all the fun activities? Check out our complete list of hotels in the Champaign-Urbana area, ready to make your stay brilliant!
PLAN YOUR TRIP
Plan your entire weekend with our Experience Guide, filled with ideas on our award-winning and global food scene, live music and events, agricultural adventures, outdoor explorations, arts and culture, and much more.