Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) wait for the homecoming season all year. It’s one of those experiences where you would just have to see it for yourself to understand. People come from all over the country to attend homecomings, often weeks in a row. It’s all about having fun with friends, and reconnecting with old ones. It’s about the barbecues, the parties, the games, and unexpected unforgettable moments.
2020 homecomings were supposed to be epic. Some of us may have even picked our outfits already. But then COVID-19 hit, and everything changed. Most of us aren’t even allowed to be on campus anymore. Gatherings and sports games have been mostly cancelled. The college experience is not at all what it was just this time last year. This left us wondering, what next?
The HBCU Buzz team is here to tell you, homecoming season isn’t going anywhere! At HBCU Buzz we post a list of homecoming events every year, and this one is no different. Homecomings may look a little different, but if you know HBCUs, you know the party doesn’t stop. This is the first year we’re seeing virtual HBCU homecomings, but they’re actually pretty live!
“I predict virtual HBCU homecomings will be here to stay. They’ll become meshed into our post-COVID world,“ said Luke Lawal, founder of HBCU Buzz. “Don’t get me wrong next year students and alumni are going to flood the yard, BUT virtual programing may present unique opportunities in the future.”
A variety of schools and HBCU advocates, from YouTube to the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, have stepped up to make sure HBCU homecomings don’t miss a beat. Even more celebrities have been joining in to make sure these events are no less memorable. You might be surprised just how creative these events are getting.
We had to put this list together so we could all join in and get our homecoming fix! Now you’ll be able to attend more homecomings than ever before!
1. Howard Homecoming
Howard University is known to throw an unforgettable homecoming every year. People travel from all over the world just to make sure they don’t miss it. But this year, from October 10-18, you can stay at home and still catch everything. With the theme “Advocacy,” Howard University’s Homecoming will be grounded with initiatives towards social justice, equity, and inclusivity. Events will even include a virtual Yard Fest with top-tier artists and entertainers, a racial justice symposium, and a gospel concert.
