Gainesville Homecoming Weekend: Your Ultimate Guide 2025 Edition

Homecoming in Gainesville is more than a football game — it’s a weeklong celebration of Gator pride, school spirit, alumni reconnection, and community events across campus and around town. Whether you’re a student, family member, alumnus, or visitor, here’s everything you’ll want to know to make the most of Homecoming Weekend 2025.

Homecoming 2025 kicks off early in October and culminates with Gator Growl, the Homecoming Parade, and the big UF Homecoming football game. The 102nd Gator Growl promises an electric night at the O’Connell Center with a performance by Steve Aoki. 

The week includes a variety of events: leadership pageants, Soulfest, fun runs, vendor festivals, and more — all designed to bring the Gator community together. 

When: Thursday, October 9, 6:30 p.m.

Where: University Auditorium

The competition honors student leaders as they vie for Homecoming King and Queen.

When: Friday, October 10, 5:30 p.m.

Where: Reitz Union Grand Ballroom

A showcase of dance, music, and multicultural performances celebrating student talent. 

Mainstreet Daily News Gainesville

When: Friday, October 17, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Where: Plaza of the Americas

Expect vendor booths, student organization showcases, food, giveaways, and community engagement. 

UF Homecoming & Gator Growl

When: Friday, October 17, ~10:30 a.m. (check-in 9:30 a.m.)

Where: Starting at Plaza of the Americas, running across campus and along the parade route

A casual 2.1-mile run/walk open to students, alumni, faculty, and visitors. 

When: Friday, October 17, 12:00 p.m.

Where: Begins at 13th Street & Museum Road, then proceeds down University Avenue

This is one of the largest student-run parades in the nation, featuring floats, performances, and school spirit. 

When: Friday, October 17, Doors open 6 p.m., show at 7 p.m.

Where: O’Connell Center

The flagship Homecoming event — a massive pep rally produced by Florida Blue Key with music, performances, fireworks, and community energy. This year’s headliner: Steve Aoki. 

When: Saturday, October 18

Where: Ben Hill Griffin Stadium (“The Swamp”)

The Gators take on Mississippi State in the Homecoming matchup. Kickoff time to be announced. 

During Homecoming, the city and local businesses also get into the spirit. Here are a few ideas to round out your experience:

• Tailgating & Fan Zones: Walk University Avenue, Norman Hall Lot, or campus-adjacent lots to feel the energy of the crowd.
• Downtown Gainesville: Restaurants, bars, and breweries — many with live music or Homecoming specials.
• Campus Tours & Historic Walks: Visit the Murphree area, the 34th Street Wall (a community graffiti landmark), or walk through UF’s tree-lined quads and historic halls.
• Norman Hall Tunnel (13th Street Underpass): Known for its graffiti art and as a photography spot during Homecoming. 
• Game-Day Visits: Arrive early to catch the Gator Walk, when players pass through fans on their way to the stadium — a beloved tradition.
• Relaxation & Nature: If time allows, visit Fred Cone Park for a stroll, or drop by local parks to unwind. 

• Plan Your Days: With overlapping events, pick your must-sees in advance (Gator Growl, parade, festival, etc.).
• Arrive Early: Especially for the parade and Growl — crowds gather early.
• Dress for the Florida Weather: Layers work best; mornings may be cool, midday warm, evenings humid.
• Use Stays Wisely: Make sure your lodging is close enough so you can return between large events.
• Check Timing & Tickets: Some events require RSVP or tickets (Growl especially).
• Explore After the Game: Gainesville stays alive after kickoff — live bands, late dinners, campus walks, and bat house outings are all part of the tradition.

Homecoming is about community. It’s students, alumni, families, and Gainesville residents coming together. It’s singing spirit songs under stadium lights. It’s reconnecting, celebrating, making new friends, and showing what it means to be Gator Nation for a few magical days.

Whether you're watching the parade, feeling the energy of Growl, exploring campus, or just getting lost in Gainesville’s local flavor — Homecoming is your invitation to be part of something bigger.

If you’re heading to Gainesville for Homecoming weekend, book your stay early — rooms and rentals fill up quickly during this annual celebration. StayGainesville offers the best combination of comfort, location, and local hospitality.

Our properties are located minutes from the University of Florida campus and downtown Gainesville, putting you close to the parade route, Gator Growl, and The Swamp. Choose from fully furnished homes, condos, and large group rentals with full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and plenty of space for alumni, friends, and families.

Skip the crowded hotels and enjoy your own home away from home. StayGainesville has been welcoming Gator fans for over a decade, offering clean, modern accommodations and the convenience you need for a stress-free Homecoming experience.

📍 Explore available rentals and book your Homecoming stay now at StayGainesville.com.