People and Community University

What you need to know about the Homecoming kickoff event

Homecoming officially starts Monday, Nov. 4, and all University students, faculty, and staff are invited to attend opening ceremonies.
Homecoming officially starts Monday, Nov. 4 on the Lakeside Patio.

Homecoming week kicks off on the Lakeside Patio. Photo: Mike Montero/University of Miami

Students, faculty, and staff are invited to kick off Homecoming week with Spirit Day on Monday, Nov. 4 on the Coral Gables campus Lakeside Patio from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Join the Spirit Squads, University leadership, Hurricanes Athletics coaches, and participating organizations to celebrate the start of Homecoming with free catered BBQ, live music, and festivities for everyone.

Co-hosted by Homecoming Executive Committee, Government and Community Relations, Hurricane Productions, Category 5, dining services, Housing and Residential Life, and Orientation and Commuter Student Involvement, the most spirited event of the year is open to the entire University community.

“The student-run Homecoming Executive Committee looks forward to spreading the spirit of Homecoming beyond just the student body,” said Josh Brandfon, senior director of student activities and student organizations, and advisor to the Homecoming Executive Committee. “Spirit Day is an opportunity for staff and faculty to not only celebrate their own affinity for UM, but also to join together with students in a campus-wide event to honor our University’s rich legacy and traditions.”

Looking to keep up with the schedule of events during Homecoming? We’ve got everyone covered:

Faculty and staff

With events starting on Monday on the Coral Gables campus and the employee appreciation day football game closing out the weekend, there’s something for everyone on each campus. Be sure to check the schedule of events for faculty and staff to join in on the fun. View the schedule and pick up a few pro-tips to help navigate the week of celebrations.

Students

Homecoming’s traditional events such as the King and Queen Pageant, Spirit Tree decorating competition, Alma Mater singing contest, and Organized Cheer will be held on November 4 through 7. Rapper 21 Savage energizes the Watsco Center during Hurricane Production’s Homecoming Concert on Thursday, and Hurricane Howl wraps it all up with food trucks at Miller Circle and a block party on the Foote Green on Friday night. The traditional boat burning ceremony and fireworks show will take place on Lake Osceola at 8:30 p.m.

Visit the Student Activities & Student Organizations (SASO) website to view the full Homecoming 2019 schedule of events. Stay connected to the Homecoming Executive Committee on Facebook or email questions to umhomecoming@miami.edu