A Hawkeye's Guide to Homecoming
Hawkeyes from around the world will swarm to Iowa City the week of Oct. 23–29 for homecoming. As you plan your visit for one of Iowa’s longstanding traditions, here are several events and opportunities you don’t want to miss. For a more detailed schedule, visit the Homecoming at Iowa website, where new events will be added each week.
PARADE
PHOTO: University of Iowa
Friday, Oct. 28
5:45 p.m.
Downtown Iowa City
Iowa men’s wrestling coach Tom Brands (92BS) has attracted record-setting crowds to Carver-Hawkeye Arena in his 16 seasons leading the Hawkeyes. This year he and fellow grand marshal Clarissa Chun, the new Iowa women’s wrestling coach, will help draw more than 15,000 spectators to the streets of downtown Iowa City for this community celebration. After the parade, walk to one of many delicious downtown eateries located near the parade path. Hungry for a gooey pizza or a juicy burger? Your fellow Hawkeyes have some recommendations on where to go.
Concert
Friday, Oct. 28
After the parade
Pentacrest lawn
From classic acts like The Temptations and Three Dog Night to current breakthrough artists like Lizzo and Chvrches, the student-organized concert always offers an entertaining (and free!) crescendo to Friday’s activities. Before this year’s performance, revisit 25 legendary Iowa City concerts, or relive some memorable shows experienced by fellow Hawkeyes. How do artists make it big? Get an inside look at the music industry through the perspectives of five Iowa graduates. More information on this year's concert will be announced closer to the date on the Homecoming at Iowa website.
FOOTBALL GAME
PHOTO: Tim Schoon/University of Iowa
Saturday, Oct. 29
2:30 p.m.
Kinnick Stadium
Iowa hosts Northwestern in a Big Ten West division battle. The game kicks off in the afternoon, allowing Iowa fans more time to explore campus, reconnect with fellow Hawkeyes, and enjoy tailgating before entering historic Kinnick Stadium. The Hawkeyes defeated the Wildcats 17-12 last November in Evanston, Illinois, and five of their last six meetings were decided by a touchdown or less. Quiz your friends before kickoff on all things Hawkeye football with Iowa Magazine’s Iowa Icons series.
Other Homecoming Week Activities
Hawkeye Athletics
Cheer on the Hawks in volleyball at Xtream Arena on Thursday, or watch the softball, field hockey, and women's basketball teams on Friday. Visit Iowa's all sports schedule for a full list of upcoming home competitions and locations.
Performance from the Brentano String Quartet and Dawn Upshaw
Tuesday, Oct. 25
7:30 p.m.
Hancher Auditorium
Celebrate Hancher’s 50th anniversary season with a performance that brings an ancient myth into contemporary reality. The UI performing arts center attracts some of the world’s best performers each year.
Wheel of Fortune Live!
Wednesday, Oct. 26
7:30 p.m.
Hancher Auditorium, Hadley Stage
One of the greatest game shows is coming to Hancher. Guests will have an opportunity to try out for a chance to go on stage, spin the wheel, and play to win big. Audience members will be randomly selected to win cash and prizes. Game show fans can also enjoy the Price is Right Live at Xtream Arena on Friday, Oct. 28.
Ceremonies and Receptions
Several colleges and units will host alumni for a tailgate, award ceremony, reception, reunion, or building tour. Individual listings are available on the homecoming website.
All alumni and friends are invited to honor the university's 2022 luminaries during the prestigious University of Iowa Distinguished Alumni Awards ceremony at 3 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 28. If you'd like to attend, be sure to RSVP.
Explore Campus
PHOTO: University of Iowa
As you retrace your steps to some of your favorite UI destinations, here are several ways to enjoy your time around campus and the surrounding area.
- Take a campus tour
- Eat a meal in a campus dining hall
- Shop in the Iowa Hawk Shop
- Visit the UI Athletics Hall of Fame
- Book a tee time at the Finkbine Golf Course
- Work out at the Campus Recreation and Wellness Center
- Attend a university event
- Take a self-guided, 1-mile literary tour
STAY IN TOUCH
Homecoming is a great opportunity to reconnect with Iowa—but it doesn't have to be the only time. You can stay in touch with the University of Iowa by updating your contact information, joining an alumni network, and reading Iowa Magazine.