By Keyaira Boone ·

Break out the rubies and pearls. It’s homecoming season!

Graduates of Historically Black Colleges and Institutions will rush home to their alma maters to enjoy the festivities, where being unapologetically Black is the norm.

The traditional pep rallies and tailgating sessions are a staple of these affairs, but they have also evolved to include black tie galas, panels, comedy shows and of course, step shows.

See what this year’s crop of homecoming celebrations has in store for you this month below!

01
Alabama A&M University
Show off some of that Bulldog pride as you watch A&M take on Texas Southern University at the alma mater of Ruben Studdard and Don Calloway. After the big game on October 5, watch Gunna and LightSkinKeisha hit the stage.
Show off some of that Bulldog pride as you watch A&M take on Texas Southern University at the alma mater of Ruben Studdard and Don Calloway. After the big game on October 5, watch Gunna and LightSkinKeisha hit the stage.
02
Albany State University
Before he was recording hits and writing best sellers, Rick Ross attended this school on a football scholarship. Watch the upstate boys get challenged by Lange College on October 12.
Before he was recording hits and writing best sellers Rick Ross attended this school on a football scholarship. Watch the upstate boys get challenged by Lange College on October 12.
03
Alcorn State University
Vanessa Bell Armstrong and Ben Cone will be featured at Alcorn’s Homecoming Gospel Explosion on October 13 where students and alumni prove they’re “brave” enough to praise.
Vanessa Bell Armstrong and Ben Cone will be featured at Alcorn’s Homecoming Gospel Explosion on October 13 where students and alumni prove they’re “brave” enough to praise.
04
Benedict College
Watch Benedict crown a new legacy at the aptly named Courtchella on October 9. Catch the big game on October 12.
Watch Benedict crown a new legacy at the aptly named Courtchella on October 9. Catch the big game on October 12.
05
Bethune-Cookman University
Experience a comedy jam, all black affair, and a silent headphones party throughout the week of October 26th.
Experience a comedy jam, all black affair, and a silent headphones party throughout the week of October 26th.
06
Bowie State University
Before they were laying it low and spreading it wide on WeTV, Toni and Towanda Braxton were stomping the yard at this university. Enjoy the brunch and day party on October 10, or stop by the Bulldog Golf Classic on October 8.
Before they were laying it low and spreading it wide on WeTV, Toni and Towanda Braxton were stomping the yard at this university. Enjoy the brunch and day party on October 10, or stop by the Bulldog Golf Classic on October 8.
07
Central State University
Fish Frys, wine socials, and photoshoots are filling up the Mauderers calendar this season.
Fish Frys, wine socials, and photoshoots are filling up the Mauderers calendar this season.
08
Clark Atlanta University
Kenya Barris, Bryan-Michael Cox, Bomani Jones, and Eva Marcille have all passed through these hallowed halls. You never know who is going to stop bye and say hello as you’re passing through the yard on October 19.
Kenya Barris, Bryan-Michael Cox, Bomani Jones, and Eva Marcille have all passed through these hallowed halls. You never know who is going to stop bye and say hello as you’re passing through the yard on October 19.
09
Central State University
Fish Frys, wine socials, and photoshoots are filling up the Mauderers calendar this season.
Fish Frys, wine socials, and photoshoots are filling up the Mauderers calendar this season.
10
Delaware State University
The big game may have passed but that doesn’t mean it’s too late to enjoy the small town feel of Dover.
The big game may have passed but that doesn’t mean it’s too late to enjoy the small town feel of Dover.
11
Edward Waters College
See what the next generation of tigers has to say by attending the Alumni Student Connection brunch. Afterwards, support them by seeing Dru Hill at the Alumni Scholarship Concert on October 11.
See what the next generation of tigers has to say by attending the Alumni Student Connection brunch. Afterwards, support them by seeing Dru Hill at the Alumni Scholarship Concert on October 11.
12
Elizabeth City State University
There’s something for every age group at Elizabeth City State University's homecoming. The school is hosting a traditional alumni mixer, a young alumni jam, a step show and a tea reception the week of October 19.
There’s something for every age group at Elizabeth City State University's homecoming. The school is hosting a traditional alumni mixer, a young alumni jam, a step show and a tea reception the week of October 19.
13
Fayetteville State University
Watch the cast of Wild ‘N Out perform their signature freestyle battles for free here on October 3.
Watch the cast of Wild ‘N Out perform their signature freestyle battles for free here on October 3.
14
Clark Atlanta University
Kenya Barris, Bryan-Michael Cox, Bomani Jones, and Eva Marcille have all passed through these hallowed halls. You never know who is going to stop bye and say hello as you’re passing through the yard on October 19.
Kenya Barris, Bryan-Michael Cox, Bomani Jones, and Eva Marcille have all passed through these hallowed halls. You never know who is going to stop bye and say hello as you’re passing through the yard on October 19.
15
Delaware State University
The big game may have passed but that doesn’t mean it’s too late to enjoy the small town feel of Dover.
The big game may have passed but that doesn’t mean it’s too late to enjoy the small town feel of Dover.
16
Edward Waters College
See what the next generation of tigers has to say by attending the Alumni Student Connection brunch. Afterwards, support them by seeing Dru Hill at the Alumni Scholarship Concert on October 11.
See what the next generation of tigers has to say by attending the Alumni Student Connection brunch. Afterwards, support them by seeing Dru Hill at the Alumni Scholarship Concert on October 11.
17
Elizabeth City State University
There’s something for every age group at Elizabeth City State University's homecoming. The school is hosting a traditional alumni mixer, a young alumni jam, a step show and a tea reception the week of October 19.
There’s something for every age group at Elizabeth City State University's homecoming. The school is hosting a traditional alumni mixer, a young alumni jam, a step show and a tea reception the week of October 19.
18
Fayetteville State University
Watch the cast of Wild ‘N Out perform their signature freestyle battles for free here on October 3.
Watch the cast of Wild ‘N Out perform their signature freestyle battles for free here on October 3.
19
Florida A&M University
The rattlers have tapped Lil’ Baby, Ball Greezy, and Kash Doll to bolster their reputation as one of the best homecomings on the planet come October 2. Can’t wait for the show? Attend their art talk at the Foster-Tanner gallery the day before on October 1.
The rattlers have tapped Lil’ Baby, Ball Greezy, and Kash Doll to bolster their reputation as one of the best homecomings on the planet come October 2. Can’t wait for the show? Attend their art talk at the Foster-Tanner gallery the day before on October 1.
20
Fort Valley State University
If the tailgate isn’t enough, have a taste of the valley at the many luncheons, dinners, and receptions being held on October 19.
If the tailgate isn’t enough, have a taste of the valley at the many luncheons, dinners, and receptions being held on October 19.
21
Hampton University
Real Housewives star Gizelle Bryant, former ESSENCE editor-in-chief Angela Burt-Murray and award-winning costume designer Ruth Carter have called Hampton home so even if you spend the weekend of October 26 watching them debate about the real HU, you know you’ll be doing it in style.
Real Housewives star Gizelle Bryant, former ESSENCE editor-in-chief Angela Burt-Murray and award-winning costume designer Ruth Carter have called Hampton home so even if you spend the weekend of October 26 watching them debate about the real HU, you know you’ll be doing it in style.
22
Howard University
Once home to hustlers like Diddy and Taraji P. Henson, the Mecca is celebrating their plan to move forward. Stand by the Bison at Howard’s annual day of service on October 5, and support the LGBT communities at the Renaissance Reception on October 9.
Once home to hustlers like Diddy and Taraji P. Henson, the Mecca is celebrating their plan to move forward. Stand by the Bison at Howard’s annual day of service on October 5, and support the LGBT communities at the Renaissance Reception on October 9.
23
Jackson State University
Experience an authentic second line parade before seeing Lil’ Baby and Light Skin Keisha at this Mississippi school on October 10.
Experience an authentic second line parade before seeing Lil’ Baby and Light Skin Keisha at this Mississippi school on October 10.
24
Johnson C. Smith University
Watch the winner of BET’s Sunday Best Season 9 Melvin Crispell, III sing down at their Gospel explosion on October 21.
Watch the winner of BET’s Sunday Best Season 9 Melvin Crispell III sing down at their Gospel explosion on October 21.
25
Kentucky State University
Watch the Mighty Marching Thoroughbreds represent for the Green and Gold on October 12.
Watch the Mighty Marching Thoroughbreds represent for the Green and Gold on October 12.
26
Lane College
Check out a traditional Battle of The Bands at Lane College’s homecoming on October 18.
Check out a traditional Battle of The Bands at Lane College’s homecoming on October 18.
27
Langston University
Stave off those tailgating calories by participating in the Color Run on October 19.
Stave off those tailgating calories by participating in the Color Run on October 19.
28
Lincoln University (Pennsylvania)
Take a break from the Vendors’ Fair crowds by relaxing in the Lounge/Hospitality Suite offered by the Class of 1999 on October 12.
Take a break from the Vendors’ Fair crowds by relaxing in the Lounge/Hospitality Suite offered by the Class of 1999 on October 12.
29
Lincoln University (Missouri)
After seeing David Banner expand on his theory about the “God Box” on October 15, you can take in an old school concert, featuring Con Funk Shun and Terisa Griffin on October 19 or weigh in on the more modern aux cord awards.
After seeing David Banner expand on his theory about the “God Box” on October 15, you can take in an old school concert, featuring Con Funk Shun and Terisa Griffin on October 19 or weigh in on the more modern aux cord awards.
30
Morehouse
The magnificent men of Morehouse will be reliving their Glory Days from October 20 to the 27.
The magnificent men of Morehouse will be reliving their Glory Days from October 20 to the 27.
31
Morgan State University
DJ battles, church services, and business meetings are all on the Bears’ agenda the weekend of October 12. Stop by to represent your business or align your spirit.
DJ battles, church services, and business meetings are all on the Bears’ agenda the weekend of October 12. Stop by to represent your business or align your spirit.
32
Miles College
Experience an Egyptian paradise, featuring special guests on October 5.
Experience an Egyptian paradise, featuring special guests on October 5.
33
Mississippi Valley State University
Throw on your best 90s look and relieve your Whitley Gilbert fantasies at this “A Different World”-themed homecoming where Lil’ Boosie will be gracing the stage on October 4.
Throw on your best 90s look and relieve your Whitley Gilbert fantasies at this “A Different World”-themed homecoming where Lil’ Boosie will be gracing the stage on October 4.
34
North Carolina A&T State University
Johnny Gill and En Vogue will be getting alumni back in the groove at Terrence J.’s alma mater on October 25.
Johnny Gill and En Vogue will be getting alumni back in the groove at Terrence J.’s alma mater on October 25.
35
Prairie View A&M University
Alumni have a full on music festival at this Texas-sized school on October 18.
Alumni have a full on music festival at this Texas-sized school on October 18.
36
Savannah State University
Help Savannah State celebrate 130 years of Rising Higher and witness the awarding-winning performance of the first HBCU to ever win a national cheerleading competition on October 26.
Help Savannah State celebrate 130 years of Rising Higher and witness the awarding-winning performance of the first HBCU to ever win a national cheerleading competition on October 26.
37
Shaw University
Show up for a Shaw style family reunion on October 19.
Show up for a Shaw style family reunion on October 19.
38
Leverage Intellectual Capital From Local Colleges & Universities
Students at all levels - undergraduates, masters and PhDs can help you grow your business significantly," Monica says. "Tapping into the intellectual capital at globally recognized institutions for internships, technical development, and business strategy can give your company an early competitive advantage." If you're in the Atlanta area, local resources include: HBCUvc @ Atlanta University Center , Emory Impact Investing Group @ Emory University , Capstone Program @ Georgia Tech University; Startup Exchange @ Georgia State University; and Students to Startups program @ Invest Atlanta .
Raymond Boyd/Getty Images
39
South Carolina State University
South Carolina State University will be showing out on October 19.
South Carolina State University will be showing out on October 19.
40
Leverage Intellectual Capital From Local Colleges & Universities
Students at all levels - undergraduates, masters and PhDs can help you grow your business significantly," Monica says. "Tapping into the intellectual capital at globally recognized institutions for internships, technical development, and business strategy can give your company an early competitive advantage." If you're in the Atlanta area, local resources include: HBCUvc @ Atlanta University Center , Emory Impact Investing Group @ Emory University , Capstone Program @ Georgia Tech University; Startup Exchange @ Georgia State University; and Students to Startups program @ Invest Atlanta .
Raymond Boyd/Getty Images
41
Texas Southern University
Raheem DeVaughn will be lending his vocals to their "Southern and Sophisticated" Neo Soul & Jazz Scholarship Brunch on October 6.
Raheem DeVaughn will be lending his vocals to their "Southern and Sophisticated" Neo Soul & Jazz Scholarship Brunch on October 6.
42
Tennessee State University
Don’t put away that white sundress just yet! Tennessee State is putting together a white party you won’t want to miss on October 17!
Don’t put away that white sundress just yet! Tennessee State is putting together a white party you won’t want to miss on October 17!
43
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
Pull up to the official Pine Bluff Bonfire on October 3 to watch "Da Baddest" as Trina slays Homecoming Weekend.
Pull up to the official Pine Bluff Bonfire on October 3 to watch "Da Baddest" as Trina slays Homecoming Weekend.
44
Virginia Union University
Join Keke Wyatt, Bilal and Kelli Lemon as they welcome VSU’s newest leader at his inaugural Suits and Jays Soiree on October 17.
Join Keke Wyatt, Bilal and Kelli Lemon as they welcome VSU’s newest leader at his inaugural Suits and Jays Soiree on October 17.
45
Virginia State University
The Trojans are kicking off a world tour on October 19. They’re bringing Meg Thee Stallion, Lil’ Tjay, Mike Epps, Bruce Bruce and Gary Owen along for the ride.
The Trojans are kicking off a world tour on October 19. They’re bringing Meg Thee Stallion, Lil’ Tjay, Mike Epps, Bruce Bruce and Gary Owen along for the ride.
46
West Virginia State University
Tickets are sold out for the Yellow Jackets boat ride, but you can still support the alma matter of Antoine Fuqua and Katherine Johnson by attending one of their prestigious luncheons on October 5.
Tickets are sold out for the Yellow Jackets boat ride, but you can still support the alma matter of Antoine Fuqua and Katherine Johnson by attending one of their prestigious luncheons on October 5.
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