Get ready to experience Memphis in a whole new way! This October, our city is set to light up with an unprecedented celebration of pride, spirit, and shared soul. For the first time, three of our city’s most important institutions—the University of Memphis, LeMoyne-Owen College, and Rhodes College—are joining forces for Memphis Homecoming Week 2025. This city-wide event, running from October 18th to the 26th, is more than just a party; it’s a powerful statement about what makes Memphis a true epicenter of learning, culture, and innovation.
This collaboration, in partnership with Memphis Brand, unites students, alumni, families, and all Memphians in a shared celebration of our city’s unstoppable energy. It’s a moment to honor our rich educational landscape, support our local businesses, and show the world the magic that happens when we all come together. We invite every Memphian to join in and feel the pride that defines our incredible community!
Kicking Off a Historic Celebration
The festivities begin with a bang! Mark your calendars for the Memphis Homecoming Week Kickoff Celebration on Saturday, October 18th, at the historic Handy Park on Beale Street. Presented by First Horizon, this open-air event is a true welcome to everyone who calls Memphis home. It’s a chance to gather under the city lights and celebrate the unique spirit that connects us all.
The main stage will feature amazing performances from local artists, talented students, and proud alumni, creating a soundtrack that is pure Memphis. This kickoff isn’t just the start of a week of events; it’s the start of a new tradition, showcasing how our community’s spirit can spark incredible opportunities and highlight everything that makes Memphis a place to belong and thrive.
A City of Learning and Legacy
Memphis is a city built on a foundation of educational excellence! This Homecoming Week, the spotlight shines brightly on three outstanding colleges—each one helping shape the minds, dreams, and futures of the next generation of leaders, innovators, and creators.
- University of Memphis: As a major public research university, the UofM stands proudly as a force for innovation and positive change in the region. Its students and faculty tackle real-world challenges, advancing everything from logistics to healthcare, all while fueling Memphis’s dynamic spirit. The university’s deep commitment to community engagement ensures that its impact extends far beyond campus boundaries.
- LeMoyne-Owen College: The heart of HBCU culture beats strong at LeMoyne-Owen College, where over 150 years of legacy, resilience, and excellence have paved the way for generations of changemakers. Homecoming 2025’s theme—807 & Park—channels the vibrant energy of BET’s iconic music show and celebrates the magic of the “807” community. Throughout the week, you’ll find unforgettable traditions like the Royal Court Coronation, energetic pep rallies, cultural fests, spirited tailgating on Magic Lane, and the dazzling 807 & Park LIVE! Be sure to check out events like Silent Headphone Parties, Alumni Mixers, the Magic Midnight Madness Fireworks Show, and, of course, the lively Homecoming Parade and Basketball Games. Whether you’re an alum, a current student, or a visiting neighbor, LeMoyne-Owen’s Homecoming is a joyous call to come home, make memories, and celebrate a powerful legacy.
- Rhodes College: With deep roots in the heart of Midtown, Rhodes College exemplifies academic excellence and community connection. Their Homecoming/Reunion Weekend is a cherished annual tradition welcoming alumni, families, and friends back to their iconic campus. While the 2025 lineup is filled with reunions, spirited gatherings, and campus tours, it’s also a time for current students to connect with alumni and celebrate what it means to be part of the Rhodes community. From class parties to special recognition events, every moment is focused on honoring the legacy and achievements of Rhodes graduates while building new memories with friends old and new.
By joining forces for Homecoming Week, these three distinct institutions are sending a powerful, unified message: Memphis is a hub where knowledge, culture, and community come together in the most exciting and memorable way! Their collaboration isn’t just about celebrating individual strengths—it’s about making Memphis a dynamic center of belonging and growth for all.
University of Memphis: Roar with Tiger Pride!
The University of Memphis has a full lineup of exciting events to get every Tiger fan roaring! The celebration is a perfect blend of tradition, family fun, and high-energy spirit.
Thursday, Oct. 16: Tigers host Memphis Madness Presents Ballin’ on Beale, sponsored by Campbell Clinic, on Thursday, Oct. 16, at 6 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 18: We Are Memphis host “Memphis Homecoming Kickoff” at Handy Park at 3 p.m. featuring University of Memphis.
Wednesday, Oct. 22: SoundFuzion Fall Concert at Scheidt Family Performing Arts Center, at 7 p.m. Ticketed event.
Roar Fest Block Party
On Friday, October 24th, from 6-8 PM, head over to the Luther C. McClellan Alumni Mall for the Roar Fest Block Party. This free, family-friendly event is the ultimate pre-game celebration! Enjoy live music from the high-energy band SoundFuzion, grab a bite from local food trucks, and feel the excitement build with special guest appearances. The whole family can enjoy the Family Fun Zone, complete with bounce houses and inflatables. Of course, the Mighty Sound of the South, Pouncer, and the Memphis Spirit Squad will be there to lead a spirited pep rally!
Friday, Oct. 24: 3rd Annual R&B Party “Karaoke Edition: University of Memphis Homecoming 2025” at Zen House Memphis with Sounds by DJ Ferg – 21+ event.
Parent and Family Weekend
From October 24-26, the UofM welcomes all Tiger families for its annual Parent and Family Weekend. It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to spend quality time with their students, connect with faculty and staff, and experience life as a Memphis Tiger. The weekend is packed with memorable experiences and fun traditions that showcase the welcoming and vibrant campus community.
The Big Game: Memphis vs. South Florida
On Saturday, October 25th, it all comes down to this! Head to Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium to cheer on your Memphis Tigers as they take on South Florida. The energy starts hours before kickoff on Tiger Lane, with the Tiger Tailgate presented by Marriott Bonvoy and the UofM Alumni Association. Don’t miss the iconic Tiger Walk, where you can cheer on the team as they enter the stadium. It’s the perfect culmination of a week filled with Tiger pride! Get tickets to University of Memphis vs. South Florida at 11:00 a.m.
LeMoyne-Owen College: The Magic of 807 & Park
Get ready to feel the heart and soul of HBCU tradition with LeMoyne-Owen’s electrifying Homecoming lineup! From October 19–26, the campus comes alive with daily events that honor Magician pride and legacy:
- Sunday, Oct. 19: Start the week with Worship at St. Paul Baptist Church and experience the dazzling Magic Midnight Madness & Fireworks Show.
- Monday, Oct. 20: Attend the Royal Court High Tea and the grand Mr. & Miss LOC Coronation—a celebration of service and elegance—plus the Monday Magic Mixer for alumni.
- Tuesday, Oct. 21: Take part in the high-energy Silent Headphone Party and Alumni TopGolf Takeover.
- Wednesday, Oct. 22: Don’t miss 807 & Park LIVE!—a lively pep rally with surprise guests on the Brownlee Hall Lawn.
- Thursday & Friday: Join student favorites like Black Horror Movie Night and the Magic Cultural Fest, along with alumni receptions, mixers, and care package service projects.
- Saturday, Oct. 25: Experience the beloved Homecoming Parade, the Magic Lane Takeover tailgate, women’s volleyball, and action-packed Basketball Games that bring the community together.
- Sunday, Oct. 26: Wrap up with the Alumni Worship Service and the 807 & Park Farewell Brunch & Day Party.
LeMoyne-Owen’s events are open, inclusive, and buzzing with community energy—come ready to dance, connect, and be inspired!
Rhodes College: Celebrate Connections Old and New
Rhodes College rolls out the red carpet for Lynx alumni, families, and friends during Homecoming/Reunion Weekend! This signature event packs the campus with excitement, joy, and a true sense of belonging. While specific event details vary each year, you can always look forward to hallmark traditions including:
- Alumni Class Reunions: Special gatherings by class year that highlight cherished friendships and the ever-growing Rhodes network.
- Homecoming Tailgate & Football: Cheer for the Lynx, reunite with fellow alums, and savor delicious food and Memphis hospitality.
- Campus Tours & Open Houses: Explore new campus features, visit favorite spaces, and share stories across generations of Rhodes graduates.
- Community Honors: Unique opportunities to recognize outstanding contributions and community impact from Rhodes alumni and students alike.
Saturday, Oct. 18: We Are Memphis host “Memphis Homecoming Kickoff” at Handy Park at 3 p.m. featuring Rhodes College.
Thursday, Oct. 23: Rhodes Night at the Overton Park Shell to Celebrate the College’s 100 Years in Memphis. Free and open to the public, the concert begins at 7 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 24: Rhodes College Homecoming Eve and 100th Anniversary Celebrations
◦ Rhodes College Homecoming Concert 4:00 p.m.
◦ Rhodes Alumni Kickoff and Beer Fest 5:30-7:30 p.m.
◦ Rhodes Rooftop Party for Class with Highest Annual Fund Participation 7:30- 9:30 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 25: Rhodes College Homecoming Games
◦ Rhodes College Tournament Women’s Volleyball vs River Falls vs. Millsaps at 11:00 a.m.
◦ Rhodes Field Hockey vs Marian University at 12:00 p.m.
◦ Rhodes Football vs Sewanee at 2:00 p.m.
There’s a special energy on the Rhodes campus during Homecoming Weekend—a fusion of pride, tradition, and genuine community spirit that welcomes all to take part.
By uniting for Homecoming Week 2025, the University of Memphis, LeMoyne-Owen College, and Rhodes College showcase the unstoppable force of learning, legacy, and community that makes Memphis truly extraordinary.
Memphis Homecoming Week is also a heartfelt boost for our city’s small businesses and local changemakers. As you celebrate, we encourage you to join the “Memphis Memories Challenge” on social media. It’s simple: shop at your favorite local spots, eat at beloved Memphis restaurants, or enjoy a local attraction. Then, snap a photo or video and share your best Memphis moments with the hashtag #MemphisMemories.
Every post is a chance to shine a light on our thriving business scene and the shared joy that unites us. Plus, you could win some exciting prizes! This is our chance to show off the businesses that give Memphis its character and to support the entrepreneurs who make our city so special.
Join the Celebration!
This is Memphis history in the making. By bringing together three incredible colleges, a powerhouse of local businesses, and the unstoppable energy of our communities, we are truly elevating what it means to celebrate Memphis. When we unite around our city’s soul, that’s when the magic really happens.
So, get your blue and gray, purple and gold, and red and black ready! Join your friends, family, and neighbors for a week of unforgettable moments. From campus traditions to the bustling businesses that keep Memphis vibrant, every part of Homecoming Week is an opportunity to make memories, build connections, and show the world what true community looks like.
Visit www.MemphisHomecoming.com to find more information and get ready to be part of the celebration!
