Ball State University Celebrates 100 Years of Homecoming, Oct. 19–24

Topics: Alumni, Arts and Culture, Community Engagement, Foundation, Muncie, Student Activities, Students

September 29, 2026

Ball State University will celebrate 100 years of Homecoming Oct. 19-24, bringing generations of Cardinals together for a week of traditions, community, and school spirit.

This year's theme, "Chirping Through the Decades," recognizes a century of Homecoming memories while celebrating the students, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends who continue to shape the tradition.

Ball State's first Homecoming was held Nov. 18, 1926, when students welcomed alumni back to campus for a one-day celebration featuring a bonfire, pep rally, and dance. Over the century since, Homecoming has grown into a weeklong celebration featuring traditions such as the Parade, Bed Race, Air Jam, tailgating, and football.

"For 100 years, Homecoming has brought generations of Cardinals back to Ball State to reconnect, celebrate, and create new memories together," said Jean Crosby, president of the Ball State University Foundation and Alumni Association and vice president for university advancement. "We look forward to welcoming alumni and friends back throughout the week as we celebrate this milestone and the traditions that have made Homecoming such a meaningful part of the Ball State experience."

The 2026 celebration will culminate Saturday, Oct. 24, when the Ball State football team hosts Sacramento State at 3:30 p.m. at Scheumann Stadium. Homecoming King and Queen will be announced during the game. Tickets are available online.

Homecoming Week highlights include:

Monday, Oct. 19

• 10 a.m.-3 p.m.: Homecoming Blood Drive, Pruis Hall
• 5:30-8:30 p.m.: Campus Dinner, The Atrium

Tuesday, Oct. 20

• 7-9 p.m.: Movie Night, Pitch Perfect, Pruis Hall

Wednesday, Oct. 21

• 5-8 p.m.: Homecoming Food Truck Festival & Pep Rally, Alan Hargrave Lawn, the former site of the LaFollette Complex. The pep rally begins at 6:30 p.m. The free event will also feature food trucks, music, spirited team competitions, and vendor tables featuring student entrepreneurs. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.

Thursday, Oct. 22

• 7:30 p.m.: Air Jam and Top 5 Royalty Announcement, Emens Auditorium

Friday, Oct. 23

• Noon: 47th annual Bed Race, Riverside Avenue

Saturday, Oct. 24

• 8:45 a.m.: Chase Charlie 5K Run/Walk, downtown Muncie and campus
• 9 a.m.: Homecoming Parade, beginning at Muncie Central High School and continuing through downtown Muncie and campus
• 1-3 p.m.: Reunion Row, next to the Alumni Center
• 1-3 p.m.: CharlieTown Tailgate, outside the Alumni Center
• 3:30 p.m.: Ball State vs. Sacramento State football game, Scheumann Stadium, Homecoming King and Queen will be announced

The schedule reflects several traditions that have become synonymous with Ball State Homecoming. The Parade dates to 1939, while the Bed Race-celebrating its 47th running this year-began in 1980. Air Jam was introduced in 1987 and remains one of the week's most anticipated events.