Reviewed by: Sarah Gronberg
Homecoming at the University of Alabama—what you need to know
The University of Alabama’s homecoming is almost here! Not only will the Tide play the Razorbacks this weekend, but there will also be many fun traditions such as the pep rally, homecoming parade and sorority lawn decoration contest. Here’s what you need to know
The University of Alabama’s pep rally + bonfire
This longtime tradition happens the night before homecoming on the Quad. You’ll have the opportunity to hear Coach Saban, President Bell and star football players speak and hear the Million Dollar Band play. The Homecoming Queen will be announced, and the next day she will be crowned during the game’s half time show. Here is a list of this year’s candidates.
After the pep rally, you can watch the lighting of the bonfire, which is easily one of my favorite homecoming traditions. According to The Crimson White the bonfire began in the 1900s as a way to chase off any invading members of rival schools.
- Where: The Quad (900 University Blvd E, Tuscaloosa)
- When: Friday, October 13 | 6:30PM
The University of Alabama step show sponsored by NPHC
This performance by traditionally Black sororities and fraternities showcases stepping, which according to The Crimson White, “is a form of percussive dance that is a well-known facet of Black Greek culture.” This highly-anticipated and competitive event will take place shortly after the bonfire. Only one fraternity and sorority will prevail as winners, and you can buy your tickets here.
- Where: Coleman Coliseum (1201 Coliseum Dr, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401)
- When: Begins at 8:30, doors open at 7:30 on Friday October 13
The University of Alabama homecoming parade
With an 11AM kick off, this year’s Homecoming Parade is early. Line ups start at 5AM and the parade begins at 7AM. Sororities, the homecoming queen, community businesses and this year’s Grand Marshall—former Alabama running back George Teague—will make up show of floats, which travel from 2nd Ave all the all the way down University Blvd.
- Where: University Blvd to Downtown Tuscaloosa
- When: Saturday, October 14 | 7AM
The Lawn Decorations Competition
Every sorority on the row pomps for two weeks before homecoming in preparation for the lawn decoration competition. “Pomps”—tiny balls formed from tissue paper—make up each house’s lawn decoration, and they’re all judged in a competition. You can see these beautiful and creative displays, which will be showcased the Friday before Homecoming through the Saturday of homecoming.
- Where: Sorority Row, from Alpha Omicron Pi (738 Colonial Dr, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401) to Alpha Delta Pi (727 Magnolia Dr, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401)
- When: Friday, October 13-Saturday, October 14
Alabama vs. Arkansas
The main event will kick-off at 11AM. Remember to pack your shaker, a blanket (the low is a chilly 58 degrees) and sunglasses to cheer on the Tide this homecoming.
- Where: Bryant-Denny Stadium (920 Paul W Bryant Dr, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401)
- When: Saturday, October 14 | Kickoff at 11AM
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