Homecoming Incoming: Your Complete Guide to What It Is—and What to Wear

When the marching band starts practicing the fight song and the football coach won’t stop calling doubles, it can only mean one thing: homecoming (or hoco) is right around the corner! A tradition that started in colleges that has now spread to high schools, homecoming started as a way to welcome alumni back to their school.  

Once a college tradition meant to welcome alumni back to campus, homecoming (or hoco, if you’re in the know) has evolved into a full-on celebration of school pride—and yes, an excuse to dress up. While the event still nods to its roots, today’s homecoming is more about uniting the student body than hosting alumni mixers.

At most high schools, the festivities span an entire week, with themed dress-up days, pep rallies, and friendly competitions leading up to the big game and the even bigger homecoming dance. Think: coordinated outfits, a little class rivalry, and plenty of photo opps.

Why Is It Called Homecoming?

The name “homecoming” comes from exactly what it sounds like: alumni returning to their alma mater. The tradition began in the early 20th century, when colleges and high schools started inviting graduates back to campus for a big game, usually football. Over the years, that single event evolved into something more: parades, pep rallies, and, of course, the dance. Today, even if your school’s homecoming doesn’t involve alumni, the name still captures the spirit of it all—pride, connection, and a major moment for community.

When Is Homecoming?

Homecoming usually happens in the fall, typically between late September and early October. The exact date varies by school and often depends on the football schedule—especially if there’s a big rivalry game on the calendar. Since the event is traditionally centered around a home game, schools tend to plan homecoming week to align with one of the season’s most anticipated matchups

Homecoming vs. Prom: What’s the Difference?

While both homecoming and prom are school dances, they’re not the same, and they have very different vibes. Prom typically happens in the spring and is reserved for upperclassmen, often juniors and seniors. It’s known for being a formal affair, with tuxedos, floor-length dresses, limousines, and fancy venues. There’s a certain level of pressure and expectation that surrounds prom, from getting the right outfit to planning the perfect night.

Homecoming is much more relaxed. It’s usually held in the school gym or cafeteria, and while students still like to dress up, the attire is often semi-formal. You’ll want to wear a nice dress, but a floor-length gown is probably a little over the top. Since the weather is still usually pretty warm, short hoco dresses are pretty popular. The atmosphere is more casual, the music is fun, and the main focus is hanging out with friends. You don’t need a date to enjoy homecoming; in fact, many students go with groups, making it a more laid-back, social event.

What Grade Is Homecoming For?

One of the best things about homecoming is that it’s open to everyone. That includes freshmen! In fact, many students attend their first high school dance at homecoming. It’s a great way for underclassmen to ease into the high school social scene without the formality or pressure of prom. 

The same is true at college. Many colleges have homecoming dances too, and they’re open to the entire undergraduate community. Whether it’s your first year or your last, homecoming is a shared experience that helps students feel connected.

A Celebration Worth Showing Up For

Homecoming is a tradition that blends fun, friendship, and school spirit. Whether you’re dressing up for the dance, showing off your school colors during spirit week, or just hanging out at the game with your friends, hoco is about enjoying the moment and feeling like part of something bigger. So grab your tickets, plan your outfit, and get ready for a week of memories you’ll look back on long after you graduate!

Are you planning your look for the homecoming dance? Head to our Homecoming Shop to get a jump on the must-have styles of the season–and be sure to share your hoco fits on Instagram or TikTok @lulus using #lovelulus!