Homecoming 2024 is reliving the moments and making new ones! Join in the fun, and be a part of one of the longest-standing traditions at Illinois State University. Find several events listed below, and find all others through the Homecoming website or by following Illinois State Homecoming on Instagram.
Window Painting, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., September 22
Organized by Student Alumni Council, the Homecoming Window Painting is a great way to help get Homecoming week started by painting the windows of a local business around campus. All registered student organizations are welcome to participate. Those interested in helping can contact Darion Effinger, graduate assistant for Alumni Engagement.
Homecoming Kickoff and Tree Lighting, 6-7:30 p.m., September 23
Watch the trees light up at dusk in Illinois State red and white with the help of President Aondover Tarhule and Mayor Chris Koos. Games, giveaway, entertainment, and Redbird pride all included. First 500 Illinois State students to show a student ID will also receive a free Homecoming T-shirt.
Homecoming Concert: Peach Pit with show opener Leah Marlene, 7 p.m., September 24
Peach Pit is an indie pop quartet from Vancouver featuring Neil Smith, Chris Vanderkooy, Peter Wilton, and Mikey Pascuzzi. The group formed in high school, and their first single, “Peach Pit,” racked up 78 million streams on Spotify in 2016. Normal native and American Idol finalist Leah Marlene will open the show. Tickets are $30 and $20 at Ticketmaster.com or at the Braden Box Office.
Redbird Rumble, 7-9 p.m., September 24
Get dressed in full red as we get ready for a little friendly Redbird competition. This event allows the opportunity to compete in a variety of fun events and show your Redbird pride. Limited to 40 teams. Learn more about rules and registration.
Redbirds Care Blood Drive, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., September 25
Visit the Circus Room in the Bone Student Center to save a life. The first 30 to donate will receive a Homecoming swag bag. Register for your spot.
Redbird Volleyball’s Shirtember, 6 p.m., September 27
We’re kicking off Homecoming weekend with Redbirds on the court. Come cheer for our Birds when they take on Murray State. To celebrate “Shirtember,” the first 250 students will get a free Redbird T-shirt. Get your tickets at the door or before the game at GoRedbirds.com/Tickets.
Homecoming Parade, 10 a.m., September 28
Registered student organizations and campus units can be a part of the second-longest tradition at Illinois State. Submit parade entries by September 16 online. Find more information on the parade website.
