The University of Tennessee Southern

Campus News

UT Southern Homecoming 2026: Tradition Never Goes Out of Style

By Kyley Wolf | September 18, 2026

1900's UT Southern Photos

PULASKI, Tenn. — The University of Tennessee Southern will celebrate Homecoming 2026 with a week of events Oct. 19-24, bringing students, alumni, families, faculty, staff and community members together to celebrate the university’s traditions and history.

Celebrating the five-year anniversary of becoming UT Southern, Homecoming 2026 allows the institution to reflect on the 156-year history of campus and generations of students, alumni, faculty, staff and community members who have shaped the legacy.  

This year’s Vintage Varsity theme celebrates the enduring traditions, stories and school spirit that connect generations of Firehawks. Homecoming week will feature a variety of events and activities throughout campus, including competitions, a talent show, carnival, alumni recognition dinner, volleyball game, and alumni and family picnic.

Events include:

  • All Week: Flame’s Flashback Finds (students only), campus wide
    • Students can participate in a scavenger hunt featuring vintage-themed finds and campus traditions.
  • Oct. 19: Campus Banner Competition Kick-Off (students only), 9 a.m., campus wide
    • Students will compete in a campus banner competition throughout Homecoming week.
  • Oct. 21: Day of Giving, all day, Campus Green
    • The annual giving event will support the people, programs and places that make UT Southern special. Community members, businesses and alumni can show their support by making a gift.
  • Oct. 21: Southern Spotlight Talent Show, 6 p.m., Martin Hall
    • Students, faculty, staff and community members are invited to enjoy a night of UT Southern talent.
  • Oct. 22: Carnival on the Campus Green, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Campus Green
    • The event will feature an afternoon of games, music, food and Firehawk spirit at the Carnival on the Campus Green for the UT Southern community.
  • Oct. 23: Hall of Fame and Distinguished Alumni Dinner, 5 p.m., Mule Barn
    • UT Southern will recognize Hall of Fame inductees and Distinguished Alumni for their leadership and service. Purchase a ticket to the dinner here.
  • Oct. 23: Firehawks Homecoming Volleyball Game, 6 p.m., Curry Athletic Complex
    • During halftime, UT Southern will announce the Homecoming Court, campus banner competition winner and winners of the Flame’s Flashback Finds scavenger hunt. The first 50 students to arrive will receive free Chick-fil-A.
  • Oct. 24: Alumni and Family Picnic, 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Campus Green
    • Students, faculty, staff and alumni can gather on the campus green for food trucks, games and friends before cheering on the Firehawks at athletic events like tennis, swimming and volleyball.

“Alumni are an important part of UT Southern and its history,” said Chancellor Melinda Arnold. “We’re so excited to welcome our alumni family back to campus for a week full of activities, celebration and recognition.”

“We are very excited about the opportunity to have our alumni reconnect with campus,” said Lydia Smith, MBA, assistant director of alumni engagement. “Homecoming week will be filled with excitement, and I’m especially looking forward to our Alumni & Family Picnic! As an alumna myself, I can’t wait to see many familiar faces and reconnect with fellow Firehawks!”

For more information about Homecoming 2026, contact the UT Southern Office of Advancement.

About the University of Tennessee Southern

The University of Tennessee Southern provides an exceptional educational experience that empowers students to discover their potential, serve their communities, and lead meaningful lives. Located in Pulaski, Tennessee, UT Southern offers personalized learning, hands-on experiences, and a close-knit campus community while serving southern Middle Tennessee and preparing students for success.