Homecoming
Homecoming is the perfect time to return to campus and rekindle your Â鶹¹ÙÍø spirit.
We are excited to welcome back our Â鶹¹ÙÍø alumni and friends from near and far for Homecoming 2026. Make sure to save the dates of Oct. 16-17 for Homecoming in Hickory.
The classes of 1976, 1986, 2001 and 2016 will celebrate milestone reunions during Homecoming 2026 weekend. The Office of Alumni Engagement is looking for alumni from these classes to help with reunion planning. If you’re interested in volunteering, reach out to Diego Sanjuan ’24, coordinator of alumni engagement.
Check back later for updates or stay up to date by following us on social media:
2026 Homecoming & Reunion Weekend Schedule
The following is a tentative schedule of the weekend. Registration is not yet available; however, alumni will be notified over the summer when it opens. Go Bears!
October 16, 2026
Class of 1976 50th Reunion
5-9 p.m | President's Residence
Hosted at the President's Residence in Dassow University Commons, the Class of 1976 proudly celebrates its 50th Reunion. Nestled at the edge of campus, the President's Home offers a warm and elegant setting designed for both hospitality and community. The evening will feature heavy hors d'oeuvres, an open bar of beer and wine, and a specialty class gift. $30 per person. Registration required.
Classes of 2001 and 2016 Reunion Kickoff
5:30-7 p.m. | City Walk Brewing and Distilling
Intended for our reunion classes of 2016 and 2001 and their guests, come celebrate 10 and 25 years since graduation at City Walk Brewing & Distilling. Enjoy complimentary appetizers and a cash bar of beer and wine as you celebrate this milestone together. Note: If you plan on staying for the subsequent Homecoming Kickoff, we kindly ask that you register for that event as well. Registration requested.
2026 Homecoming Kickoff
7-10 p.m. | City Walk Brewing and Distilling
Located along the Hickory City Walk, City Walk Brewing and Distilling rehosts this year's Homecoming Kickoff celebration. Just minutes from campus and downtown, the venue offers the perfect setting to begin your weekend. Enjoy free appetizers, a cash bar, and great company with Bears of all generations. Registration requested.
October 17, 2026
2026 Homecoming Parade
10:30-11 a.m. | Stasavich Place
Start off your Saturday with the annual Homecoming Parade! Claim your spot early along Stasavich Place to enjoy parade floats, spirited performances, and participation from student groups, alumni, and community partners.
2026 Homecoming Pre-Game BBQ
11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Shaw Plaza and Cromer Center
Get ready for the football game with a pre-game lunch from Windy City Grill in Hickory, family-friendly games, music, and lots of Â鶹¹ÙÍø spirit! The tailgate is sponsored by the Alumni Association and will run on Shaw Plaza, in front of the Cromer Center. All alumni and their guests are invited! Registration requested.
Homecoming Football Game: Â鶹¹ÙÍø vs. Wingate
2 p.m. | Moretz Stadium
Cheer on the Â鶹¹ÙÍø Bears as they take on the Wingate Bulldogs! Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children ages 3-12. Children 2 and under are free. Tickets can be purchased online at .
Class of 1986 40th Reunion
5:30-9 p.m. | Alex & Lee George Hall
The Class of 1986 celebrates 40 years of Â鶹¹ÙÍø Bear pride at Alex and Lee George Hall, one of Â鶹¹ÙÍø's newest and most modern venues. Enjoy an evening of connection and nostalgia with fellow classmates while enjoying heavy hors d'oeuvres, beer and wine, and a commemorative class gift. Note: This reunion may begin right after the football game. $30 per person. Registration required.