Homecoming is a tradition celebrated by many high schools, colleges, and universities. It typically involves a series of events and activities centered around an athletic event, where current students, alumni, faculty, and the community come together to celebrate and show support.

The term "homecoming" itself implies a return or reunion, as it often serves as an opportunity for alumni to come back to their alma mater and reconnect with friends, classmates, and faculty members. It is a time to reminisce about their time at the institution and celebrate a sense of community and school spirit.

Stillwater High School typically hosts at least football and basketball homecomings; other sports are also welcome to host sport-specific homecomings. The activities and traditions associated with homecoming can vary between institutions. SHS, perhaps due to the large scale homecoming celebration at OSU (it's the largest homecoming in the nation), does not have homecoming celebrations as elaborate as some other school districts. Some elements of typical homecoming celebrations around the country include:

1. Game: The homecoming game is often the centerpiece of the celebration. It is a chance for the school's team to compete against a rival or notable opponent, with the game usually held on or around the homecoming weekend. The game attracts a large crowd, including current students, alumni, families, and fans.

2. Parades: Many homecoming celebrations feature parades where student organizations, alumni groups, local businesses, and community members participate. These parades often include floats, marching bands, cheerleaders, and various themed displays. SHS does not host a homecoming parade, but OSU hosts the largest homecoming parade in the world. 

3. Spirit Week: Leading up to the homecoming game, schools often organize a spirit week to build excitement and foster school pride. Each day of the week may have a specific theme, such as "pajama day" or "decades day," where students dress up accordingly. Spirit competitions, pep rallies, and other activities are also common during this time.

4. Royalty and Court: Homecoming typically includes the selection of a homecoming king and queen, or prince and princess, depending on the level of education. These individuals are often nominated and elected by their peers, and they serve as representatives of the school's spirit and values. They are typically crowned during a ceremony before or during halftime at a game.

5. Alumni Events: Homecoming is an opportunity for alumni to reunite with old friends and classmates. Many institutions organize specific events, such as class reunions, alumni receptions, and campus tours, to facilitate connections and foster a sense of nostalgia.

Overall, homecoming is a time for school communities to come together, celebrate their shared experiences, and showcase their pride in their educational institution. It serves as a reminder of the lasting connections and memories created during one's time at the school while creating new ones for current students and future alumni.

 

OSU Homecoming

Homecoming at Oklahoma State University is a significant event that brings together the community in celebration. Typically bringing around 100,000 people to town.

1. History and Tradition: The tradition of homecoming at OSU dates back to 1913, making it one of the oldest homecoming celebrations in the United States. The idea behind homecoming was to welcome back former students and reconnect them with the university.

2. Walkaround: One of the highlights of homecoming in Stillwater is the Walkaround. This event takes place on the Friday evening before the homecoming football game. Greek organizations, student clubs, and other groups create elaborate and creative displays made of wood, chicken wire, and colored tissue paper. These displays line the streets of downtown Stillwater, and thousands of people gather to admire them.

3. Parade: The homecoming parade is a long-standing tradition in Stillwater. The parade features floats, marching bands, various campus organizations, and local community groups. It takes place on the morning of the homecoming football game and draws a large crowd of spectators.

4. Alumni Reunions: Homecoming is an excellent opportunity for alumni to return to Stillwater and reconnect with their alma mater. Many departments and organizations host reunions, allowing alumni to catch up with old friends, professors, and staff members. These reunions often include special events, such as class gatherings, receptions, and tours of campus facilities.

5. Homecoming Football Game: The homecoming festivities culminate with a football game at Boone Pickens Stadium. The OSU Cowboys typically play a conference opponent on homecoming weekend. The game is an essential part of the celebration, and the stadium is filled with enthusiastic fans supporting their team.

6. Spirit and Camaraderie: Homecoming in Stillwater is all about fostering a sense of school spirit and bringing the community together. Students and alumni show their support by wearing orange (the university's primary color) and participating in various activities and events throughout the weekend.

Homecoming in Stillwater, Oklahoma, is a cherished tradition that celebrates the bond between the university and its community. It showcases the rich history, pride, and camaraderie that define the OSU experience.

Learn more about OSU Homecoming here.