homecoming

Homecoming is the act of returning to one’s home country, community, school, or other group after a period of absence, often accompanied by a celebration or reunion. The term combines home with coming and emphasizes reconciliation, reunion, and a sense of belonging. While the concept exists in many cultures, the English term has become widely used in North American institutions and events.

In North American colleges and high schools, homecoming is a scheduled annual tradition that brings alumni back to campus. Activities commonly include a parade, a pep rally, a homecoming game (often involving the school’s sports team), a dance, and the selection of homecoming royalty such as a king and queen. The tradition is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century, with a prominent early example at the University of Missouri in 1911.

Outside schools, homecoming can refer to the return of military personnel, expatriates, or fans to a home base or hometown, sometimes marked by ceremonies, receptions, or media coverage. In sports beyond college football, teams may host a homecoming event. Variants exist around the world, though the term is most common in the United States; other countries may use different names or traditions to acknowledge a return, such as reunions or anniversaries.

In contemporary usage, homecoming gatherings can be inclusive of families, friends, and communities, but can also be criticized for commercialization or exclusionary practices related to royalty selections. The concept generally emphasizes the restoration of ties and the celebration of shared history.