Indiana University hosts several annual events, and a few of them are such staples that event dates are provided for several years in the future. Use this as a reference for all of IU's biggest yearly events, and feel free to call the Visitors Center at (800) 800-0037 with any questions. That's what we're here for!  

Homecoming Weekend

Indiana University Homecoming occurs in October each year. The event allows alumni to reconnect with friends, relive their favorite college traditions, and show their kids their old stomping grounds. The Indiana University Alumni Association hosts several events throughout the weekend, including a parade on Friday evening and the Hoosier Huddle, a members-only tailgate, on Saturday. Dates for upcoming Homecoming Weekends are:

• 2024: October 18-19
• 2025: October 10-12
   

Family Weekend

Family Weekend typically falls near mid-to-late September. This is an opportunity for parents to come to Bloomington for the weekend to explore the campus and town with their student(s). IU hosts several events throughout the weekend, but if you're looking for more to do, check out How to Spend a Day on Kirkwood Avenue, Things to Do for the Under 21 Crowd, and The Ultimate IU Bucket List.

• 2024: September 27-29
   

Little 500

The Little 500 is the largest collegiate bike race in the United States. Modeled after the Indianapolis 500, riders compete in four-person teams around a quarter-mile cinder track at Bill Armstrong Stadium. More than 25,000 fans flock to the campus in Bloomington each April to be a part of IU’s storied tradition. And who can blame them? The excitement, the competition, the pageantry — the Little 500 is an experience like no other. The race began in 1951 as a way to raise scholarship money for students working their way through college. Since that first race, the Indiana University Student Foundation has given away over $1 million to deserving undergrads.

The Little 500 isn't just for students either — although it's known as a lively weekend, the races also provide excitement around the history and tradition of it all. Downtown is vibrant, the weather is (usually) perfect, and there's an exuberance in the air with summer right around the corner. It's one of the best times of the year to take a trip to Bloomington.

• 2024: April 19-20
   

Graduation

Congratulations to all graduates and their families! We hope you'll spend the weekend with us to soak in your graduate's last moments at Indiana University and celebrate their incredible achievement of becoming a Hoosier alumnus.

Graduation is a massive event, so it's recommended to book lodging one year in advance. If you're having trouble finding a hotel room, or need advice on things to do while you're in town, give us a ring at (800) 800-0037.

• 2024
  • Graduate Spring Commencement: Friday, May 3
  • Undergraduate Spring Commencement: Saturday, May 4
  • Winter Commencement: Saturday, December 21 (Tentative)