Homecoming at Indiana University is a time-honored tradition that brings Hoosiers together for a weekend full of pride, celebration, and nostalgia. This year’s festivities will be held October 17-18, 2025, giving alumni a chance to reconnect with friends and share their old stomping ground with their families.
Whether you're a longtime alum or a first-time visitor, the energy on campus during IU Homecoming weekend is always electric. There’s a parade, tailgates at Memorial Stadium, and the city is buzzing with Hoosier pride! Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your Homecoming experience in Bloomington.
Schedule of Events
Throughout the week leading up to Homecoming, there are several events to enjoy, including:
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Paint the Town Crimson (October 13-19): Stroll through downtown Bloomington and enjoy windows painted with Homecoming spirit!
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Red Cross Blood Drive (October 13–14): Make a life-saving difference by donating blood from 10 am–4 pm in the Georgian room at the IMU.
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Student Alumni Association Ride or Dye (October 13): Receive a free Homecoming T-shirt and tie-dye it at Dunn Meadow from 5–7 pm.
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Homecoming Parade and Pep Rally (October 17): Cheer on IU student groups and local community organizations as they trek from 17th Street & Woodlawn south to 7th Street, ending with a pep rally at Dunn Meadow.
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The Homecoming Football Game versus Michigan State (October 18)
Game-Day Tailgating
Before the game, you’ll want to hit the tailgates along B-Town Boulevard and soak in the pre-game excitement. Here, you can enjoy live entertainment, including special performances by the Marching Hundred, RedSteppers, and Cheerleaders. Plus, expect food trucks, an outdoor bar, and family-friendly games and attractions. You can also pick up the latest gameday apparel and merchandise at the IU Team Store.
Note: B-Town Boulevard officially opens two and a half hours before kickoff.
The Big Game
The Homecoming is scheduled for Saturday, October 18 at Memorial Stadium. You should purchase tickets in advance, either through IU's athletics website or designated ticket outlets. Since Homecoming is usually more crowded, be sure to arrive early to get through security and find your seats before kickoff!
Parking Tips: Make parking arrangements in advance. IU policies require attendees to purchase a parking pass before game days to improve traffic flow. If you want to beat the congestion, public transportation or ride-sharing services are also great options.
Where to Stay for IU Homecoming
Bloomington offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. However, hotels near IU usually fill up fast on game weekends, especially for Homecoming, so be sure to book your stay well in advance!
If you want to spend the night on campus, consider the IU Biddle Hotel, located in the Indiana Memorial Union. Or, stay near Memorial Stadium at Hampton Inn or Home2 Suites by Hilton. The Graduate Bloomington, which is decked out in IU-themed decor, is also a wonderful option.
Where to Eat Near Indiana University
Chances are that you’ll want to check out the beloved campus eateries you remember. Go back to BuffaLouie's for its famous wings, or play a game of Sink the Biz at Nick's English Hut. Don’t forget to grab a slice of an award-winning pie at Mother Bear's Pizza, and be sure to sign your name on the wall to commemorate Homecoming weekend. For quick bites on the go, you can also look out for food trucks around campus and downtown during Homecoming weekend.
Activities Around Campus
Apart from Homecoming-specific events, you can explore other attractions around IU, like the Eskenazi Museum of Art at Indiana University. You can also stroll through the iconic Sample Gates, a favorite spot for photos and a gateway to the heart of campus, or kiss your partner under the Rose Well House at midnight for good luck.
Touring Campus
IU offers guided campus tours throughout the year, as well as Homecoming-specific tours, which highlight historic landmarks and academic buildings. You can also tour IU Athletics facilities and check out the many championship trophies and other mementos on display at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall. Or, pick up a campus map from the IU Visitor's Center (located in the lobby of the IMU) and explore at your own pace!
