Your Guide to 2026 University of Iowa Homecoming
From fall festivities to football, there’s nothing quite like homecoming at the University of Iowa. Since 1912, the tradition has welcomed alumni home. Tens of thousands of Hawkeyes will return to Iowa City from Oct. 25–31.
Learn more about events happening this fall, as well as some of Homecoming at Iowa’s most storied traditions.
Hawks Run Home 5K
PHOTO: University of Iowa
Sunday, Oct. 25
9:30 a.m.
Hubbard Park
The Hawks Run Home 5K is back for the fifth time to kick off homecoming week. Money raised by students and community members who participate in the run will benefit another Hawkeye hallmark: University of Iowa Dance Marathon.
Homecoming Pep Rally and Coronation
PHOTO: University of Iowa
Thursday, Oct. 29
7 p.m.
Pentacrest
Kicking off the weekend festivities, the Iowa homecoming pep rally and coronation crowns the homecoming royalty and recognizes the annual homecoming scholarship recipients. Also, enjoy performances by the Iowa Spirit Squad and entertainment and music in the heart of Iowa City.
University of Iowa Homecoming Parade
PHOTO: University of Iowa
Friday, Oct. 30
5:45 p.m.
Downtown Iowa City
Featuring floats highlighting students, staff, faculty, alumni, and community members, the University of Iowa homecoming parade provides a vibrant display of Hawkeye spirit. The parade has been a fixture of the celebration since 1917.
More than 20,000 people gather downtown annually along Iowa Avenue and Washington, Clinton, and Dubuque streets for the beloved tradition.
After the parade, walk to one of the many delicious downtown eateries located near the parade path.
Iowa Soccer Match
PHOTO: hawkeyesports.com
Friday, Oct. 30
7 p.m.
University of Iowa Soccer Complex
Cheer on the Iowa women’s soccer team against Wisconsin. The Hawkeyes, who are led by first-year Head Coach Dean Ward, have made the NCAA Tournament the last three seasons.
Iowa Homecoming Concert
PHOTO: University of Iowa
Friday, Oct. 30
8 p.m.
Pentacrest Lawn
Presented by SCOPE Productions, the annual Iowa homecoming concert on the Pentacrest Lawn brings students and alumni together following the parade. The featured act will be announced in the coming months.
Iowa Football Game
PHOTO: hawkeyesports.com
Saturday, Oct. 31
Time TBA
Kinnick Stadium
The Iowa Hawkeyes will face the Wisconsin Badgers in this year’s homecoming game.
Explore Campus
PHOTO: University of Iowa
Need a few more suggestions to fill your time in Iowa City during the 2026 University of Iowa homecoming? Check out these options.
- Enjoy a meal in a campus dining hall
- Shop in the Iowa Hawk Shop
- Visit the UI Athletics Hall of Fame
- See the UI Stanley Museum of Art’s latest exhibits
- Visit the Pentacrest Museums
- Work out at the Campus Recreation and Wellness Center
- Take a self-guided, 1-mile literary tour
