One Campus, One Roar: Homecoming 2026
Homecoming returns October 25 – October 31
From Staff Reports
Jaguars, it’s time to come together—One Campus, One Roar: Homecoming 2026 is coming up at Governors State University (GovState).
From Sunday, October 25 through Saturday, October 31, GovState’s campus will be full of Jaguar spirit with a week of events planned. From spirit days and student club fun to Fright Night Film Fest, there’s something for every Jaguar. Students, faculty, staff, and alumni are all invited to join.
Here are just some of the events to anticipate for Homecoming 2026:
1. Jaguar 5K (Sunday, October 25 at 9 a.m. outside at Governors State University) – Jaguar 5K registration is now open! Get in on the action – run, walk, or just come for the fun! Click here for more details and registration.
2. Let the Roar Begin: Homecoming Kickoff (Monday, October 26 at 12 p.m. in Hall of Governors) – Kick off Homecoming Week with music, games, popcorn, punch, and plenty of Jaguar. Join the campus community to celebrate One Campus, One Roar and start Homecoming Week with fun, energy, and school pride.
Spirit theme: Rep your college! (Wear apparel representing your college, academic program, department, or area.)
3. Women’s Soccer vs Calumet College of St. Joseph (Tuesday, October 27 at 2 p.m. on the GovState Soccer Field) – Head to the GovState Soccer Field and support Women’s Soccer as the Jaguars on Calumet College of St. Joseph. Bring Jaguar pride and help create an exciting Homecoming atmosphere from kickoff to the final whistle.
Spirit theme: Orange out (Wear your favorite orange apparel and accessories to show your Jaguar pride and help fill GovState with school spirit.)
4. Family Fun Fair (Wednesday, October 28 at 3:30 p.m. in Hall of Governors) – The Family Fun Fair is a Homecoming tradition that brings alumni, families, and the GovState community together. Enjoy face painting, crafts, games, story time, magic, live, music, a treat trail, and more while connecting with campus partners and alumni-owned businesses.
Spirit theme: Shoe cam (Wear your best, boldest, or most creative pair of shoes and be ready to show them off for Shoe Cam.)
5. Pep Rally (Thursday, October 29 at 1 p.m. in Hall of Governors) – It’s time to make some noise, Jaguars! Join the annual Homecoming Pep Rally featuring performances, school spirit, and plenty of Homecoming energy. Come ready to cheer and show everyone what One Campus, One Roar is all about.
Spirit theme: GovState spirit day (Wear your GovState gear and school colors as we celebrate Spirit Day and gear up for one of the biggest days of Homecoming Week.)
6. Pokémon Homecoming Pursuit (Friday, October 30 at 11 a.m. in Lakeside Lounge) – Calling all Pokémon Trainers! Join the Jaguar Anime and Gaming Club for a Pokémon GO meetup and campus adventure. Explore GovState, catch Pokémon, connect with fellow players, and enjoy a fun Homecoming experience.
Spirit theme: Costume/Album cover day (Recreate your favorite album cover, dress as an iconic artist, or come in your best costume as we keep the Homecoming celebration going.)
7. Men’s Basketball vs. Willian Penn (Saturday, October 31 at 3 p.m. in the GovState Gym) – Close out Homecoming with an afternoon of Jaguar Basketball! Join the campus community as GovState Men’s Basketball faces William Penn and help send Homecoming Weekend out with a strong showing of Jaguar pride.
Click here for the full roster and more details. Questions? Email the Center for Student Engagement & Leadership at GetInvolved@govst.edu.