Homecoming is a tradition in many high schools, colleges, and churches in the United States and Liberia. It is a celebration of welcoming back alumni or other former members of an organization to celebrate the organizations existence. Homecoming events typically involve a week-long celebration that includes dress-up days, a pep rally, a parade, a football game, and a dance. The homecoming game is a special football game that has been designated as the “homecoming game.” It is a time where many alumni return to campus to watch the game and to join current students in showing their school pride. The homecoming dance is the culminating event of the week-long celebration. The dance is typically held on Saturday night and is a formal event. Students dress up in formal attire and dance to music provided by a DJ or live band. Here are some common homecoming traditions:

• Homecoming Court: Oftentimes students will elect a “Homecoming King & Queen” as well as other representatives of the student body to the Homecoming Court. Being a member of the Homecoming Court is often a coveted position, particularly in high school. Court members are often revealed/introduced at a Pep Rally or homecoming dance.

• Pep Rally: Pep rallies are designed to bring out school spirit and to “pep up” or encourage the football team to do their best. They are usually held in the days leading up to a big game, and typically feature a marching band (or drumline) and cheerleaders.

• Tailgate: In between the first and second halves of the game is what is known as “half time” --an intermission where the teams go back to their respective locker rooms and regroup for the second half.

Homecoming is a major part of the school year in America, and it is a way for high schools and colleges to build school spirit and bring together students, alumni, and the community. The dress code for homecoming is usually semi-formal, and teenagers wear things like cocktail dresses, button-downs, and slacks. Homecoming is often a more relaxed event than prom, and students attend with either a date or with a group of friends.