Homecoming is almost here, which means the next week is jam-packed with events for Penn Staters to enjoy.

From ice cream socials to parades, homecoming offers a variety of activities for students and alumni. The festivities culminate in Penn State football’s homecoming matchup against Wisconsin on Saturday, September 26.

Take a look at what’s going on in Happy Valley for homecoming week.

Monday, September 21

Allen Street Jam

When & Where: 3 – 7 p.m. — Allen Street

Allen Street Jam will offer folks local foods, live performances, free games and prizes, and a chance to meet this year’s Homecoming Court.

Tuesday, September 22

“Past 2 Present”

When & Where: 12:30 – 4:30 p.m. — Old Main Plaza

Love a good throwback? The Old Main Plaza will commemorate Penn State’s history with the “Past 2 Present” event.

Visitors can enjoy cotton candy, cake, games, a sign shop, and live performances.

SFTG Dance Competition

When & Where: 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. — Schwab Auditorium

If folks want a place to show off their moves, stop by Schwab Auditorium for the Penn State “For the Glory” dance competition to cheer on your friends and fellow Penn Staters.

The competition consists of campus-wide organizations, allowing students to showcase their talent. The winner will have a chance to dance during THON weekend.

Wednesday, September 23

Best Of Penn State Carnival

When & Where: Noon – 5 p.m. — HUB Lawn

The Best of Penn State Carnival will feature booths, free food, a caricature, and inflatable rides.

Opulence Drag Show

When & Where: 7 – 9 p.m. — Basement Nightclub

Stop by Basement Nightclub for an electric show with premier performers.

Thursday, September 24

Pride in Our Community Pep Rally

When & Where: 6:30 p.m. — HUB Monumental Staircase

Hosted by the Paul Robeson Cultural Center, the annual pep rally is a communal event where attendees can watch and cheer on student dancers.

Friday, September 25

Alumni Ice Cream Social

When & Where: 1 – 3 p.m. — Hintz Family Alumni Center

All members of the Penn State community are invited to an Alumni Ice Cream Social event to enjoy free ice cream. The Alumni Blue Band will also perform, with plenty of chances to connect with Penn State alumni.

Old Coaly 2K

When & Where: 5:30 p.m. — Homecoming Parade Route

Want to show your school spirit?

Join students at the Old Coaly 2K to run half the parade route before the Homecoming Parade begins.

Homecoming Parade

When & Where: 6 – 9 p.m. — University Park Campus & Downtown State College

The 2026 Homecoming Parade celebrates one of the university’s oldest traditions. The parade route will go through campus and downtown State College, showcasing student-run organizations, alumni, community members, and VIPs.

Guard the Lion Shrine

When & Where: Following The Homecoming Parade — Nittany Lion Shrine

The Lion Ambassadors host this annual tradition following the parade.

Visit the Lion Shrine to enjoy entertainment, guest speakers, free food, and games and activities to protect the Nittany Lion.

Saturday, September 26

Homecoming Football Game

When & Where: 5 p.m. — Beaver Stadium

The Nittany Lions will take on the Wisconsin Badgers in the 2026 Homecoming Game. It marks new head coach Matt Campbell’s first Big Ten test.

Sunday, September 27

Alumni Networking Event

When & Where: Noon – 2 p.m. — Lions Lair In The HUB

The week will end with the brand-new Alumni Networking Event, an opportunity for students and alumni to connect.

The event is free for students; alumni are encouraged to attend for a $10 fee.