EIU Media Relations

EIU reminder: 2025 Homecoming Dates

Community, neighbors invited to participate in, celebrate longstanding EIU tradition

(Charleston, IL) — Eastern Illinois University is preparing for its highly anticipated 2025 Homecoming celebration, which will take place the week of October 6 through 11, 2025. Students, alumni, faculty, staff, neighbors, and friends of EIU are all invited to save the date and join in a week full of Panther pride and tradition.

This year’s theme is “Boogie with Billy,” and a full schedule of events is available at eiu.edu/homecoming. Attendees can look forward to many returning annual activities, including the Pep Rally, Pancake Breakfast, 5K Run/Walk, and the vibrant Homecoming Parade through downtown Charleston. As part of Saturday’s events, EIU football will take on Big South-OVC Football Association foe Gardner-Webb 2 p.m. that afternoon at O’Brien Field. Fans planning to tailgate before the game can look forward to a festive and family-friendly environment. More information about EIU Tailgating at O’Brien Field is available at eiupanthers.com/sports/football.

The EIU Homecoming Parade is scheduled for Saturday, October 11, 2025, beginning at 9:30 a.m. The parade features student organizations, marching bands, floats, and local groups, creating a colorful and spirited celebration of the entire Charleston and EIU community.

Proud alums, longtime supporters, community members and first-time EIU visitors are urged to save the dates, rally behind their Panther pride, and get ready to celebrate what makes Eastern Illinois University a cornerstone of tradition and community spirit in east central Illinois.

For more information, visit eiu.edu/homecoming or follow EIU Homecoming on social media for the latest updates.