UMass Amherst and the UMass Amherst Foundation invite the local community to experience a quintessential New England autumn and UMass pride during Homecoming 2026 on Oct. 9-10.

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With family-friendly activities, performances, athletic matchups, and downtown festivities, this year’s Homecoming offers something for all ages, emphasizing the connection between campus and surrounding areas. 

“UMass is deeply committed to the community it serves, and our success depends on the strength of the relationships we build with our neighbors,” says Chancellor Javier Reyes. “Homecoming gives us a chance to pay tribute to the many ways our university and community contribute to one another. We’re proud to welcome local residents, alumni, and friends to campus and downtown Amherst to celebrate all that we share.”

Homecoming festivities begin on Friday, Oct. 9, with a UMass Faculty and Staff Kickoff Celebration starting at 11:30 a.m. in the Marriott Center, and a Homecoming Spirit Kickoff, featuring fall treats, crafts, activities and giveaways, at noon on the North Lawn outside of the Student Union.

UMass field hockey plays Appalachian State at 4 p.m. at the Gladchuck Field Hockey Complex, and UMass hockey takes on RIT in its 2026-27 home opener at 7:30 p.m. at the Mullins Center, the first of two matchups between the teams over the weekend.

“Each year, Homecoming brings alumni back to campus to reminisce, catch up with old friends, and celebrate the place they once called home,” says Arwen Duffy, president of the UMass Amherst Foundation. “It is also a chance to make new memories and see the university with a fresh perspective. For many alumni, Homecoming is a reminder of their lifelong connection to UMass.”

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From 5-8 p.m., Community Spirit Central returns to Kendrick Park, featuring performances by student groups and family-friendly activities, including glow-in-the-dark swings, games, and a tie-dye station courtesy of the UMass Store. UMass student-athletes will be on hand to help with crafts and interact with families.

Attendees are also invited to explore downtown Amherst and enjoy local food, shopping, and more. UMass Downtown, the university’s welcome center and retail store located at 108 North Pleasant St., will give Homecoming stickers to the first 250 visitors and offer complimentary food from La Veracruzana on a first-come, first-served basis.

“A strong town is made even stronger through great partnerships,” says John Page ’19, executive director of the Amherst Business Improvement District, who was a member of the UMass Homecoming Court in 2017. “UMass Homecoming is a prime example of what makes Amherst such a vibrant community. We’re excited to welcome visitors downtown to explore local businesses, enjoy great food, and experience all that Amherst has to offer as we celebrate the connection between UMass and the town.”

On Saturday, Oct. 10, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., community members can explore campus with the UMass Pass, which invites participants on a self-guided adventure to six campus landmarks. Each stop offers autumn activities and exclusive UMass-themed giveaways such as sunglasses, tote bags, T-shirts, and a squirrel stuffed animal.

Beginning at 11 a.m. at McGuirk Alumni Stadium, fans can gather at the Cheer and Beer Garden for lawn games, music, live performances from the UMass Minuteman Marching Band, food and drinks from top-ranked UMass Dining, and more. Attendees can connect with UMass schools, colleges, and alumni affinity groups, including the Black Alumni Network, Latinos of UMass, Women for UMass, and LGBTQA+ and veteran alumni.

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At noon, men’s soccer hosts the University of Nebraska Omaha at Rudd Field. The Homecoming football game kicks off at 2 p.m. as UMass takes on Miami (Ohio) University at McGuirk. Game time is subject to change at the discretion of television partners. The day concludes with UMass hockey once again playing RIT at 7:30 p.m. at the Mullins Center.

“Homecoming at the flagship has always been about bringing people together, and UMass Athletics is at the heart of that tradition,” says Director of Athletics Ryan Bamford. “After a strong start to our fall sports season, Homecoming gives us another chance to build on that momentum, with an incredible lineup of home competitions across field hockey, men’s soccer, football, and ice hockey. We’re excited to welcome our students, alumni, fans, and neighbors to campus for a weekend of competition, celebration, and UMass pride.”

Those still in the area on Sunday, Oct. 11, are invited to attend the Community Touch a Truck event at Amherst Central Fire Station, 68 North Pleasant St., from 10 a.m. to noon, as well as a men’s basketball exhibition game against Rhode Island at 3 p.m. at the Mullins Center.

A full schedule of community events for Flagship Fall: Homecoming 2026 can be found at UMassHomecoming.com. Registration is encouraged but not required, and there is no cost to participate in community events. Admission is free for the field hockey, men’s soccer and men’s basketball exhibition games. Tickets for UMass football and hockey can be purchased at UMassAthletics.com/Homecoming or by calling 866-UMASS-TIX.