Florida State University will host a series of Homecoming 2026 events Friday, Nov. 13, through Saturday, Nov. 21, themed “Tradition Takes the Spotlight” to honor tradition, foster connections and recognize alumni achievements. Students, parents, alumni, friends and community members are invited to be part of the Homecoming 2026 parade and Seminole LIVE! 175 Carnival on Friday, Nov. 20.
“Homecoming is a reminder that our students, traditions and pride of being a Seminole are what make Florida State so special,” said Amy Hecht, vice president for Student Affairs. “In celebration of our 175th anniversary, we have created more opportunities during Homecoming to connect generations and build community as we celebrate tradition.”
Festivities include the Homecoming Parade, Seminole LIVE! 175 Carnival and alumni gatherings, culminating with the Homecoming football game against NC State on Saturday, Nov. 21. At halftime, the Homecoming Chief and Princess will be revealed, celebrating the university’s special relationship with the Seminole Tribe of Florida.
A full schedule of events is listed at homecoming.fsu.edu.
Featured events include:
FRIDAY, NOV. 13
Chalk on Legacy Walk
Noon | FSU Legacy Walk
Join this celebration and chalk Legacy Walk garnet and gold! Kick off Homecoming Week by decorating a square on FSU’s iconic Legacy Walk alongside student organizations. Students can also enjoy games, crafts and admire the creative chalk artwork celebrating FSU spirit.
SUNDAY, NOV. 15
Odds and Evens
2-6 p.m. | Main Campus Fields
Odds and Evens is a high-energy recreational event that brings students together through friendly competition and school spirit. Dating back to the days of the Florida State Women’s College, this event unites students through exciting tournaments in pickleball, basketball and sand volleyball. Whether competing or cheering friends and teammates on from the sidelines, students can expect a fun atmosphere filled with unforgettable Homecoming memories.
MONDAY, NOV. 16
Spirit Night
7-10 p.m. | Student Union Ballroom A, Rm. 2203
Spirit Night is a longstanding Florida State Homecoming tradition celebrating FSU pride through student-led performances. Join us for an exciting twist this year featuring original skits inspired by FSU traditions and school spirit!
TUESDAY, NOV. 17
Homecoming Chief and Princess Voting
8 a.m. – 8 p.m. | Online
Voting for FSU Homecoming Chief and Princess is open to students and takes place online from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17, and Wednesday, Nov. 18. During this timeframe, students can click here to vote (after authenticating through CAS).
Service Night: Food Fortress
4-7 p.m. | Student Union Ballroom A, Rm. 2203
Get ready for an exciting Homecoming service event linked with our annual “Chop & Chomp: Beat UF” rivalry. In partnership with FSU’s Food for Thought Pantry, student organizations will build FSU-inspired fortresses using non-perishable food donations. The event also features a Jeopardy-style trivia competition raising awareness about food insecurity and resource tables connecting attendees with campus and Tallahassee services. Every item donated during the Chop & Chomp Food Drive, which runs until Nov. 24, will support FSU students facing food insecurity.
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 18
Bring Your History: 175 Time Capsule
1-3 p.m. | Strozier Library
Stop by and contribute a piece of your story to the University Time Capsule. Whether it’s a photo, letter, keepsake, program or other meaningful memento, your contribution will help capture what life at FSU is like today for future generations. Every donation adds to the story of our campus community and the memories that define this milestone year.
Silent Disco Ball with CARE
6-9 p.m. | Thagard
Students can enjoy music through wireless headphones, dance, enjoy free food and connect with other students at the Silent Disco Ball.
THURSDAY, NOV. 19
Legacy Quest
2-5 p.m. | Student Union Green
Homecoming’s new event, Legacy Quest, is an interactive, campuswide scavenger hunt that explores FSU’s history, traditions and iconic landmarks. Starting at Union Green, students will discover what makes the Florida State community truly incomparable while creating new memories and celebrating 175 years of FSU’s Legacy.
EXTRAV Homecoming Step Show
7-10 p.m. | Student Union Ballrooms
The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) FSU EXTRAV Homecoming Step Show is an annual step show competition designed to showcase and celebrate the legacy, discipline and excellence of the NPHC member organizations at FSU. Participating organizations will take the stage to showcase their artistry through steps, strolls, chants and creative performances that embody the culture, creativity and innovation of their organizations.
FRIDAY, NOV. 20
Emeriti Homecoming Reunion Weekend
The Emeriti Alumni Society will kick off its Homecoming reunion weekend of events with a picnic at the FSU Lakefront and Recreation Center at noon. The reunion allows graduates of 50 years ago or more to relive memories, reconnect with classmates and enjoy campus experiences and VIP parade viewing. For details and registration, visit gonol.es/easreunion26.
Homecoming Parade
3:30 p.m. | W. Jefferson St.
The annual Homecoming Parade will begin at Donald L. Tucker Civic Center and end on Jefferson Street. Students, faculty, staff, alumni and the Tallahassee community are invited to cheer on the Marching Chiefs, FSU Cheerleaders and more than 125 decorated float and parade entries. View the parade route.
Seminole LIVE! 175 Carnival
4-8 p.m. | Main Campus Fields
Seminole LIVE! 175 Carnival, sponsored by the Homecoming Council, will take over the Main Campus Fields with free amusement rides, carnival games and entertainment, Seminole Tribe demonstrations, performances by the Marching Chiefs, FSU Cheerleaders, Golden Girls and other student organizations. In recognition of Florida State’s 175th anniversary, this year’s event will be bigger than ever, welcoming members of the Tallahassee community to join us in celebrating the spirit, traditions and legacy of FSU. Carnival tickets are free with details coming soon. Only clear bags will be allowed at the venue.
SATURDAY, NOV. 21
Homecoming Tailgates
Alumni, parents and friends are invited to connect at several alumni network tailgates before the Homecoming football game. The Pride Alumni Network, Veterans Alumni Network and Women for FSU will offer tailgates with food, fun and spirit.
FSU vs. NC State Football
Florida State’s Homecoming football game against NC State will take place Saturday, Nov. 21. The game will also serve as FSU’s Seminole Heritage game. Kickoff time is TBD.