Homecoming

Hosted by the Union Programming Board and the Division of Student Affairs, Homecoming is a weeklong celebration of UMKC pride. Events and competitions are designed to highlight and celebrate UMKC Student Organizations and their contributions to our vibrant campus community. 

History of Celebration

The University of Missouri-Kansas City began putting on an annual Homecoming banquet and dance in 1955. At that time the University did not have a football or a basketball team, so the dance honored the alumni of the university. Although the students danced the night away at the dance, the tradition was not like it is today. It was not the week full of events that we all look forward to now.

The tradition came to an end in the mid 1970’s when the dance started to become less successful. One of the University newspaper headlines read “Homecoming Flops”. It is assumed that the change of spirit and student involvement came when all Korean War Veterans came back from the war and went back to school. The student population suddenly became comprised largely of adults, which drastically changed the environment of student activities on campus.

The Activity & Program Council revived the tradition in 1996  to honor and promote UMKC school spirit and athletics, especially the basketball program. Today, Homecoming features a week packed with fun events. 

Homecoming 2027 

Homecoming 2027 will take place November 2-6, 2027.