Homecoming is a tradition in many high schools, colleges, and churches in the United States and Liberia. It is an annual tradition in the United States where people, towns, high schools, and colleges come together, usually in late September or early October, to welcome back former members of the community. Homecoming is a way for schools to build school spirit and bring together students, alumni, and the community. The main event of homecoming is usually a game of American football, but on occasions, it can be basketball, ice hockey, or soccer. The activities during homecoming week vary widely, but they typically include dress-up days, a pep rally, a parade, a football game, and a dance. The homecoming dance is usually the culminating event of the week for high schools, and it is a formal or informal event, either at the school or an off-campus location. The venue is decorated, and either a disc jockey or band is hired to play music. In many ways, it is a fall prom. The term "homecoming" can also refer to the special services conducted by some religious congregations, particularly by many smaller American Protestant churches, to celebrate church heritage and welcome back former members or pastors.