Virginia Tech set to celebrate 100 years of Homecoming

Virginia Tech Homecoming makes its return to Blacksburg Oct. 12-17 with programming slated for students, alumni, community members, and friends. This year, the beloved tradition turns 100, giving Hokies even more reason to come together and reflect on the connections, memories, and spirit that make Virginia Tech special.

The weeklong celebration begins on Monday afternoon with the official Homecoming Kickoff on the Drillfield featuring a DJ, photo booth, and inflatables, as well as special appearances from this year’s Homecoming Court candidates and representatives of various student organizations.

Later that evening, the Class of 2028 Ring Premiere will be held in Burruss Hall. The latest redesign of the Virginia Tech class ring — a symbol that connects generations of Hokies and captures the memories and experiences shared by each graduating class — will be unveiled.

Dietrick Lawn will be the hub of activity with the free, rain-or-shine Sustainable Dining Fall Harvest Festival taking place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Spend the evening enjoying a movie on English Field during the Film on the Field event, presented in partnership by Student Alumni Associates and Class Programs and the Hokies Activities Board.

Support those in need by participating in an on-campus blood drive hosted by the American Red Cross on Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., then head to Haymarket Theater at 6:30 p.m. for Aux Cord Wars, sponsored by the Black Student Alliance. This high-energy event features performances by students singing their favorite songs and showcasing their musical tastes, plus a surprise guest artist.

Homecoming Weekend gears up with numerous events hosted by various colleges and alumni groups, along with a beloved, community-centric tradition: the annual parade. It will begin at 6:45 p.m. and march through downtown Blacksburg, ending on the Drillfield.

This year’s featured alumni guests include Rick Devens ’06, a reality television fan favorite who competed on "Survivor" and "Big Brother," and Jerry Hulick ’73, an Alumni Distinguished Service Award recipient whose work supports families and individuals with special needs. Former Homecoming royalty have also been invited to join the parade in celebration of this historic milestone year.

For those looking to add an extra layer of excitement, the watch party from 6-8 p.m. on Alumni Mall will offer lawn games, music, food, and a lively setting to cheer on the parade. Registration is $10 in advance and children 12 and under can attend for free.

The festivities culminate on Saturday with the Homecoming Tailgate, beginning four hours prior to kickoff of the sold-out, Maroon Effect football game versus Georgia Tech. In a new location on the Drillfield this year, the tailgate is a can’t-miss gathering for fans of all ages complete with food, drinks, music, family-friendly fun, and college- and unit-hosted activity tents.

Registration is $15 in advance or $20 on the day of the event, with free admission for attendees 12 and under. Each adult registration also includes a $5 gift to the Alumni Scholarship Fund, allowing fans to fuel their Hokie Spirit while supporting current students.

See the full lineup of Homecoming events at vt.edu/homecoming.