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Virginia State | Life > Experiences

VSU Homecoming Bucket List

Katheryn Moore Student Contributor, Virginia State University
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Virginia State chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

Homecoming is the go-to event for any HBCU, and Virginia State is no exception. Whether you’re a freshman or an upperclassman, Homecoming is a staple. It’s bigger than any other event on campus because it’s not just students attending, but also alumni. The traditions, the culture, and the community all come together in an even bigger way during this week.

As you dive into this bucket list, make sure you’ve got your checklist ready, your game face on, and yes, your wallet too.

Must-Attend Events

Not every event is mandatory. If you try to do everything, you’ll probably be exhausted by the end of the week. But there are a few you should not miss, and others you can pick depending on your vibe. Every event has its own energy, and that’s what makes the week so special.

Here’s the official lineup:

  • Pre-Dawn Party Saturday, October 18, 2025 | 12 AM – 3 AM | Daniel Gymnasium
  • Pre-Dawn Breakfast Sunday, October 19, 2025 | 4 AM – 6 AM | Jones Dining Hall
  • Gospel Concert Sunday, October 19, 2025 | 4 PM – 7 PM | Daniel Gymnasium
  • Lighting of the Stadium Sunday, October 19, 2025 | 8 PM – 9:15 PM | Rogers Stadium
  • SGA Talent Show Monday, October 20, 2025 | 7 PM – 10 PM | Daniel Gymnasium
  • Day of Fun Tuesday, October 21, 2025 | 12 PM – 4 PM | University Ave/Band Practice Field
  • Royal Coronation Tuesday, October 21, 2025 | 6 PM | Daniel Gymnasium
  • Org Bazaar Wednesday, October 22, 2025 | 2 PM – 6 PM | University Avenue
  • Hip Hop Concert Wednesday, October 22, 2025 | 8 PM | Multi-Purpose Center
  • HBCU Darty Link Up Thursday, October 23, 2025 | 7 PM – 10 PM | Multi-Purpose Center
  • 1st Lady Golf Tournament Thursday, October 23, 2025 | 8 AM | Lake Chesdin Golf Club
  • Vendors Bazaar Friday, October 24, 2025 | 12 PM – 6 PM | Old Band Practice Field
  • Pep Rally Friday, October 24, 2025 | 12 PM – 2 PM | Rogers Stadium
  • Trojan Alumni and Friends Bar Crawl Friday, October 24, 2025 | 4 PM – 7 PM | Old Town Petersburg
  • Harlem Nights on the Hill Friday, October 24, 2025 | 6 PM | Multi-Purpose Center
  • Parade Saturday, October 25, 2025 | 9 AM | Petersburg
  • President’s Tailgate Saturday, October 25, 2025 | 10:30 AM | Multi-Purpose Center
  • Hospitality Spaces Saturday, October 25, 2025 | 12 PM – 6 PM | Foster Hall Back Lawn/Univ. Ave
  • HBCU DJ Battle Saturday, October 25, 2025 | 4 PM – 7 PM | Foster Hall Back Lawn
  • Football Game vs Bluefield State Saturday, October 25, 2025 | 2 PM | Rogers Stadium

You need to make time for the concert, the parade, the tailgates, and the football game. Everything else, join in where you can.

Traditions

Our traditions range from step shows to strolling to just gathering as a community. That’s what makes Homecoming so important. If it’s your first time, take it all in. It can be overstimulating, and that’s okay. It’s all part of the experience.

Photo Ops

The best spots for pictures are the new building on campus, the Ave, and behind Foster. If you get the chance, stop by the Quad Circle too. These places are perfect for lighting and scenery. If you want a group shot, get it done early before the crowds hit.

Fashion Inspo

When it comes to outfits, be creative. If you see something you wouldn’t normally wear, it’s perfect for Homecoming. And ladies, if you’re planning to wear heels, bring a backup pair of shoes or skip them altogether. By the end of the day, your feet will thank you. You’ll need to balance comfort and style carefully throughout the week.

Tips for Surviving the Week

Homecoming is fun, but don’t forget about class. The rule of thumb is don’t miss until HOCO week, and even then, only if you can afford it. Don’t let your grades slip.

Safety matters too. After a certain time, you probably shouldn’t be outside. Sometimes people who don’t belong on campus will show up, and it’s better to be cautious. But don’t let fear stop you from making memories.

Most importantly, interact. Don’t just watch from the sidelines. Talk to people, join in, and let yourself enjoy it.

Conclusion

Homecoming is a lot of things: tradition, culture, fashion, community, and fun. Be prepared, pace yourself, and use this bucket list as your guide for the week.  

Katheryn Moore

Virginia State '24

Hi! My name is Katheryn Moore, and I’m a junior at Virginia State University majoring in Marketing with an expected graduation in May 2027. I’m a proud member of the Honors College, a Presidential Scholar, and I’ve been honored to make the Dean’s List every semester while maintaining a 3.9 GPA. Education has always been a huge part of my journey, but what excites me most is finding ways to connect what I’m learning in the classroom with real-world opportunities in marketing and content creation.

Professionally, I’ve been able to gain hands-on experience through internships and brand collaborations. I currently work as a Social Media Intern for Gainsight and as a Social Media Representative for °1824, Universal Music Group’s culture marketing team. I’ve also had the chance to collaborate with brands like Office Depot OfficeMax, OxiClean, Walmart, and Humble Brands, which has allowed me to sharpen my creativity and storytelling skills. On campus, I serve as the Founder and President of Her Campus at VSU, a Yard Ambassador & Influencer for the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, and a Champions for Financial Legacy Ambassador with the Shawn Carter Foundation. I’m also a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, where service and sisterhood are at the core of everything I do.

Outside of school and work, I love exploring my creative side. I run an Etsy shop called Kat’s Digital Boutique, where I design and sell digital templates, and I enjoy using content creation to inspire and connect with others. I also volunteer monthly with the Chesterfield County Food Bank, which keeps me grounded and connected to my community. In my free time, you can usually find me journaling, meditating, or brainstorming my next big project. Her Campus is special to me because it’s a space where I can combine my love for writing, community, and empowerment—and I can’t wait to share that passion here.