students and community cheering at the stadium

Stetson Homecoming

Save the date for Homecoming 2026 at Stetson University, October 16–18. Join fellow Hatters for a weekend of traditions, celebrations, and unforgettable moments back on campus.

Homecoming Recap

Thank You for Making Homecoming 2025 Unforgettable

This fall, we didn’t just celebrate Homecoming — we celebrated you. Hatters from across generations returned to campus to honor Stetson’s spirit and history, from the legacy of the first hat that changed the West to the alumni shaping the world today.

We witnessed milestones such as the swiftly rising Hulley Tower, the nearly complete new residence hall and the beautifully renovated Edmunds Center as well as many other symbols of Stetson’s growth and the strength of our community.

We can’t wait to see you again next year! Save the date for October 16-18, 2026. 

2026 Schedule

The schedule will be updated as more events are added. Be sure to check in often! 

stetson students taking pictures at the bonfire event

Bonfire

Wed, Oct 14 at 9:00 p.m.
Rinker Field

Celebrate Homecoming with the lighting of the Stetson Bonfire. This important tradition is a fun gathering filled with a few speakers, a huge bonfire, and Schmancy Pops! No Bags Allowed

students dancing in airwaves

Airwaves

Thurs, Oct 15 at 8:00 p.m.
Hollis Center, Rinker Fieldhouse

Come cheer on some of the student groups as they compete in the Airwaves dance competition, one of Stetson's longest-standing traditions! No Bags Allowed

alumni registering for homecoming

Information & Registration

Fri, Oct 16 at 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Rinker Welcome Center

Before the party can officially begin, you'll need to visit the Rinker Welcome Center to check in and secure everything you need for the weekend. Pick up your Stetson lanyard with your nametag, Class Reunion buttons, event wristbands, Homecoming gift, and more. Grab some refreshments with your fellow Hatters before you set off for the weekend's activities!   

Students and community showcasing their work at hatter market

Homecoming Hatter Market

Fri, Oct 16 at 2:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Palm Court

As part of this year’s Homecoming festivities, we’re excited to host the first-ever Homecoming Hatter market, a special event where students, alumni, faculty, staff and local creators come together to sell handmade crafts, showcase small businesses, and celebrate school pride! Whether you're launching your first small business, selling handmade goods, or simply looking to support fellow Hatter makers, this is your chance to shine. This event is open to all, including students, alumni, families, and the community. Come shop, support, and celebrate what makes our Stetson community so special. 

students playing games at hatter howl

 Hatter Howl

Fri, Oct 16 at 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Rinker Field

A nod to the 1950s tradition, Hatter Howl is deeply rooted in the Soul of Stetson.  All are invited to an outdoor celebration with alumni and students. Live music beer and wine sold by Sonny's BBQ, food trucks, carnival games and more. Registering for this event in advance will give you a wristband for a food voucher to use at one of the food trucks, your first beer and a collectible cup! There is no charge to attend the event and food and drinks can be purchased on-site as well, but only those who have purchased tickets in advance will get the cup! 

music students performing

School of Music Concert

Fri, Oct 16 at 7:30 p.m.
Lee Chapel, Elizabeth Hall

Join us to see the students from the School of Music perform

Alumni registering for homecoming

 Information & Registration

Sat, Oct 17 at 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Rinker Welcome Center

Just getting in? Visit the Rinker Welcome Center to check in and secure everything you need for the weekend. Pick up your Stetson lanyard with your nametag, Class Reunion button, event wristbands, Homecoming gift, and more! Grab some refreshments with your fellow Hatters before you set off for the rest of the weekend's activities! Need to edit your registration? That's what we're here for! Stop by with any questions or if you need assistance.  

Alumni at president's brunch

President’s Champagne Brunch

Sat, Oct 17 at 9:00 – 10:30 a.m.
President’s Garden

Mimosas in the President’s Garden? Count us in! Come start off your morning at this signature Homecoming event featuring live music by Nicole Equerme '08. President Roellke will kick off a brief program at 9:30 a.m. to honor Stetson’s Alumni Award winners and special guests. 

students and community participating in hatter walk

 Hatter Walk

Sat, Oct 17 at 10:30 a.m.
Downtown DeLand

Come join the Stetson Pep Band, Cheerleaders, family and friends as the Football team enters the stadium! Escorted by the DeLand Police Department, the Stetson Football team will be dropped off on S. Alabama Avenue in front of the DeLand Elks Lodge. Line the streets and cheer on the team as they make their way into Spec Martin for the big game! 

Stetson football players getting ready for the game

 Football Game vs. St. Thomas

Sat, Oct 17 at 1:00 p.m.
Spec Martin Stadium, 260 East Euclid Avenue

Come cheer on the Stetson Football team as they face Presbyterian for the Homecoming game! Parking lots open four hours before the game and parking is FREE this year! For more information, call 386-738-HATS (4287) or email [email protected]

Alumni at golden hatter lunch

Golden Hatter Lunch

Sun, Oct 18 at 12:00 p.m.
Lynn Dining Commons, South Entrance

For those classes who have already celebrated their 50th Reunion, come join other Golden Hatters for lunch in the Commons before you leave town! Register in advance and enjoy the all-you-can-eat food options and reserved seating with fellow classmates. (Registration Requested)

Homecoming Reunions


We look forward to welcoming all alumni back to campus for Homecoming 2026! Special celebrations will be planned by the Office of Alumni Engagement for those celebrating their class reunions, along with a Golden Hatter Reunion. Alumni celebrating milestone class years ending in 6 or 1 may add a reunion event to the Homecoming schedule by completing the Class Reunion Volunteer Interest Form.

Which reunion classes have a celebration planned?

50th Reunion - 1976

What can you do to help?

  • Complete the Class Reunion Volunteer Interest Form to get started! Your support for and involvement in these events make them a success!
  • Connect with Victoria Wright, Director of Alumni Engagement, to get additional reunion events added to the schedule!
  • Spread the word and invite your classmates!
  • Attend and celebrate

Photo Gallery

Take a look back at some of our past Homecoming weekends! Alumni through the years have participated in some truly iconic events and challenges, and most importantly, have made memories to last a lifetime with fellow Hatters. Be sure to join us again for Homecoming 2026, October 16-18. There are more memories to make and fun times to be had!

2025 Homecoming Sponsors

Presented By:

Insight Credit Union logo

Sponsored By:

West Volusia tourism Logo