Events

students cheering at homecoming

From reunions and campus traditions to athletic events and family-friendly activities, discover everything happening during Homecoming Weekend!

Registration and Check-in

Friday, October 9  |  9 a.m.–3 p.m.
Hill Welcome Center

Saturday, October 10  |  10 a.m.–4 p.m.
North Vago Lot or South Vago Lot
Be sure to pre-register for easy entrance and a special gift! 

Schedule of Events

6 p.m.  |  Women's Volleyball Match vs. Concordia University Wisconsin
Thornton Gymnasium in Alumni Hall

Start off Homecoming weekend by cheering on the Spartans!

7 p.m.  |  Theater Production – “13 Past Midnight”
Perry Theater in the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley Center for Cultural Enrichment

Enjoy a captivating performance of “13 Past Midnight,” a compelling play filled with engaging characters, dramatic twists, and moments of humor and reflection. This production explores the complexities of human relationships and the choices that shape our lives. This event is free to attend, but registration is required and separate from Homecoming registration. Reserve your seat.

9 a.m.  |  Golf Outing
Aurora Country Club, 1548 Prairie St., Aurora, IL

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just in it for fun, this event is a great opportunity to reconnect with fellow alumni. Registration is required and includes breakfast, lunch, a hat, and a polo. There will be prizes for closest to the pin and longest drive. Golfers may register as individuals ($250) or as a team ($1,000).

Please note: This event is limited to 40 participants. We cannot accept any walk-ups. For any questions, please email Andrea Bingle at abingle@aurora.edu.

10 a.m.  |  Labyrinth Walk
Wackerlin Center for Faith and Action

Join a certified student Labyrinth Ambassador for a guided walk. The labyrinth is free to use and available for personal reflection or group visits. Registration is required.

11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.  |  Lunch
Tru Blu Dining in Alumni Hall

Reminisce about your school days while enjoying a complimentary lunch in the dining hall. Be sure to pick up your lunch coupon at the Welcome Center when checking in.

Noon  |  Labyrinth Walk
Wackerlin Center for Faith and Action

Join a certified student Labyrinth Ambassador for a guided walk. The labyrinth is free to use and available for personal reflection or group visits. Registration is required.

2 p.m.  |  Labyrinth Walk
Wackerlin Center for Faith and Action

Join a certified student Labyrinth Ambassador for a guided walk. The labyrinth is free to use and available for personal reflection or group visits. Registration is required.

3:30–4:30 p.m.  |  Pep Rally
Thornton Gymnasium in Alumni Hall

Join students, alumni, faculty, and friends for school spirit, crowd-favorite traditions, friendly competitions (including a tricycle race!), and plenty of Spartan pride as we celebrate the start of an unforgettable Homecoming weekend.

7 p.m.  |  Theater Production – “13 Past Midnight”
Perry Theater in the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley Center for Cultural Enrichment

Enjoy a captivating performance of “13 Past Midnight,” a compelling play filled with engaging characters, dramatic twists, and moments of humor and reflection. This production explores the complexities of human relationships and the choices that shape our lives. This event is free to attend, but registration is required and separate from Homecoming registration. Reserve your seat.

8 a.m. | Alumni Women’s Lacrosse Game
Spartan Athletic Park

AU women’s lacrosse alumni are invited to compete in the annual alumni game against the current women’s lacrosse team. Contact Coach Christina Fried at cfried@aurora.edu for more information. Following the game, participants will head over to the main campus to enjoy other Homecoming activities.

9 a.m.  |  50-Year Club Induction and Breakfast
University Banquet Hall

Join us for a meaningful morning as we welcome the newest members of AU’s 50-Year Club — alumni who graduated 50 or more years ago and continue to inspire with their legacy and lifelong connection to AU. Reminisce and celebrate the enduring spirit of the Spartan community during this special breakfast. Registration is required. The cost to attend is $25. 

10 a.m.  |  Labyrinth Walk
Wackerlin Center for Faith and Action

Join a certified student Labyrinth Ambassador for a guided walk. The labyrinth is free to use and available for personal reflection or group visits. Registration is required.

11 a.m.–4 p.m.  |  Block Party
Vago Field

Register in advance for easy entrance and a fun gift. Entrances will be located at the North Vago and South Vago lots. There will be a designated lane for pre-registered guests. Present your QR code ticket (sent via email) to staff upon arrival. Activities include:

  • 11 a.m.–4 p.m. | Kids Fun Fest
  • 11 a.m.–3 p.m. | Buffet Lunch ($10 per person; payment can be made in advance or at the gates)
  • Noon–3 p.m. | Spartan Beer Tent (cash bar, must be 21 or over) 

Noon  |  Homecoming Parade
South Vago Lot

Celebrate Spartan spirit as student organizations, athletic teams, and award winners showcase their creativity and school pride with decorated golf carts, music, and Homecoming excitement. The parade will also feature the introduction of the AU Homecoming Court and a special appearance by Sammy Spartan, AU’s beloved mascot and parade grand marshal.

12:30 p.m.  |  Spartan Torch Lighting
Vago Field

Gather for this special tradition honoring AU's roots at Mendota College.

1 p.m.  |  Homecoming Football Game vs. Concordia University Chicago
Vago Field

1 p.m.  |  Homecoming Men's Soccer Match vs. Marian University
Spartan Athletic Park

3:30 p.m.  |  Homecoming Women's Soccer Match vs. Marian University
Spartan Athletic Park

5 p.m.  |  Theater Production – “13 Past Midnight”
Perry Theater in the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley Center for Cultural Enrichment

Enjoy a captivating performance of “13 Past Midnight,” a compelling play filled with engaging characters, dramatic twists, and moments of humor and reflection. This production explores the complexities of human relationships and the choices that shape our lives. This event is free to attend, but registration is required and separate from Homecoming registration. Reserve your seat.

5:30 p.m.  |  Athletics Hall of Fame Celebration
University Banquet Hall

Join us for a memorable evening celebrating the achievements and contributions of AU’s distinguished athletes, coaches, and supporters. This special event honors those who have exemplified Spartan pride, excellence, and dedication while leaving a lasting impact on AU and its athletic tradition. This event is by invitation only; email homecoming@aurora.edu for more information.

7–9 p.m.  |  Latin American Student Organization Reunion
Hill Welcome Center

Join fellow LASO alumni and friends for a special reunion during Homecoming. Reconnect with the AU community, celebrate the vibrant culture and contributions of Latino Spartans, and strengthen the connections that unite us across generations. We look forward to an evening of community, celebration, and Spartan pride. Registration is required. The cost to attend is $25 and includes appetizers, two drink tickets, plus a special giveaway.

7–9 p.m.  |   Black Student Union Reunion
Two Brothers Roundhouse, 205 N. Broadway, Aurora, IL

Join fellow BSU alumni and friends for a special reunion during Homecoming. Celebrate shared experiences, reunite with old friends, build new connections, and honor the contributions and legacy of the Black community at AU. We look forward to welcoming you back for an evening of fellowship, reflection, and Spartan pride. Registration is required. The cost to attend is $25 and includes appetizers and two drink tickets. Must be 21 or older to attend. A cash bar will also be available.

7–9 p.m.  |   George Williams College Reunion
Aurora Country Club Board Room, 1548 Prairie St., Aurora, IL

Join fellow GWC alumni and friends for a special reunion during Homecoming. Reconnect with the GWC community and strengthen the connections that unite us across generations. We look forward to an evening of community, celebration, and pride. The cost to attend is $25 and includes heavy appetizers and two drinks. Must be 21 or older to attend.

9 a.m.  |  Continental Breakfast
Hill Welcome Center

Enjoy a complimentary light breakfast before the Service of Remembrance.

10 a.m.  |  Service of Remembrance
Tapper Recital Hall in the Hill Welcome Center

Join classmates and members of the AU community for a thoughtful service to honor and remember alumni, faculty, and staff who are no longer with us.

2 p.m.  |  Theater Production – “13 Past Midnight”
Perry Theater in the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley Center for Cultural Enrichment

Enjoy a captivating performance of “13 Past Midnight,” a compelling play filled with engaging characters, dramatic twists, and moments of humor and reflection. This production explores the complexities of human relationships and the choices that shape our lives. This event is free to attend, but registration is required and separate from Homecoming registration. Reserve your seat.

Bookstore Hours

Throughout the weekend, the AU Bookstore, located in Dunham Hall, will be open for you to purchase Spartan gear for the game and beyond.

  • Thursday, October 8  |  8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
  • Friday, October 9  |  9:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, October 10  |  10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

 

Schingoethe Center

On Friday, October 9, and Saturday, October 10, the Schingoethe Center will be open from 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Stop by the museum in the Hill Welcome Center to enjoy current exhibits and tours. 

 

Quiet Space in Dunham Hall

Find a welcoming, quiet space for all ages who may need a break during activities and events.

  • Saturday, October 10  |  10 a.m.–3 p.m.

 

Questions about Homecoming?

Contact homecoming@aurora.edu or 800-377-2782.