Strike up the band: Homecoming 2026 promises traditions and a whole lot of Bronco pride

Contact: Deanne Puca

September 18, 2026

The Bronco Marching Band plays in the Waldo Stadium stands in the middle of cheering fans at Homecoming 2025. — Nothing says “homecoming” like the Bronco Marching Band at a home football game.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Homecoming Weekend 2026 will bring alumni, students, families and fans to Western Michigan University Oct. 9-10 for Bronco traditions, reunions and celebrations.

Football takes center stage Saturday, Oct. 10, when the Broncos host Kent State for Homecoming and Hall of Fame Weekend. Fans can also gather at Broncopalooza, the alumni tailgate on the Heritage Hall Grand Lawn, before heading to Waldo Stadium.

Beyond game day, homecoming activities throughout the weekend include alumni award ceremonies, anniversary celebrations, student activities and the sixth annual Bronco Marching Band Homecoming Weekend, which will bring band alumni back to campus for performances and activities throughout the two-day celebration.

“This year’s homecoming celebration aims to reconnect the Bronco community with traditions from the past while highlighting the energy of today’s campus,” says Tyler Maruschak, assistant director of campus engagement. “We are excited to create a slate of events this week that speaks to what is happening on campus while honoring tradition.”

Celebrations begin Friday, Oct. 9, with alumni award ceremonies hosted by the Haworth College of Business, the College of Arts and Sciences, and the College of Education and Human Development, along with the College of Health and Human Services’ 50th Anniversary Golden Gala.

While alumni return to campus for weekend events, students will build excitement throughout Homecoming Week with spirit days and campus traditions. The lineup includes a casino night, cowboy hat decorating, a food drive with the Graduate Student Association and the annual National Pan-Hellenic Council Marchdown.

“Homecoming is one of Western Michigan University’s longest traditions,” says Heather Stanley, senior director of alumni engagement. “I am excited to see all the alumni come back and engage with the students in what we hope will be one to remember. We love partnering with our registered student organizations and highlighting the fun things that they are doing this week.”

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