Homecoming

Homecoming returns Nov. 13-14, 2026

Mark your calendar for one of the most anticipated traditions of the year.

Homecoming returns Nov. 13-14, bringing Bears together for a full week of celebration, connection and Bear pride.

Celebrate traditions, create new memories

Leading up to game day, campus will come alive with a flurry of family-friendly activities, reunions, the homecoming parade and opportunities to reconnect with friends and fellow Bears.

Whether you are returning to campus or celebrating for the first time, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Homecoming culminates at Robert W. Plaster Stadium as the Bears take on New Mexico State.

This is your chance to cheer on Mo State, celebrate our shared traditions and create new memories.

Schedule of events

Modern university building: a light brown, paneled 'University Advancement Center' with large glass, connected to a curved, dark red ribbed 'Event Center.' People on paved plaza, under blue sky, tree branches left.
Join us as we celebrate the official opening of the Clifton M. Smart III University Advancement Center with a ribbon cutting, remarks and open house. Just 19 months after breaking ground, this state-of-the-art facility is ready to welcome Bears of all ages and stages. Be among the first to experience this new home for alumni and friends, explore the space and celebrate this exciting milestone in Missouri State history.

 

Black and white image of students exiting an academic building
Nov. 13: Class of 1976 Reunion
Celebrate your 50th graduation anniversary with fellow graduates of the Class of 1976. Kick off Homecoming weekend by reliving the moments that shaped your lives, from vibrant campus days to lifelong friendships. Registration coming soon.

 

Starry black background. Large white & red text: 'BEAR NATION CELEBRATION - The ULTIMATE HOMECOMING EVE PARTY'. Red location text. Two red-bordered gray starbursts list 'FOOD DRINKS BEAR PRIDE' & 'PYRO DRONE SHOW'. Bear head of lights & sparks at bottom.
Kick off Homecoming Weekend at the Bear Nation Celebration! Everyone is invited to explore the new Clifton M. Smart III University Advancement Center, enjoy food, drinks and plenty of Bear pride, and experience Springfield's first-ever pyrodrone show. Whether you're a student, alumnus, parent, faculty or staff member, or a friend of Missouri State, join us for an unforgettable start to Homecoming Weekend as we celebrate a new home for Bears of all ages and stages.

 

Photo of Three people wearing BearWear standing shoulder-to-shoulder and smiling
Nov. 14: Golden Bears Reunion
Join us at Homecoming 2026 to celebrate the cherished campus memories and enduring bonds formed more than 50 years ago. Let’s reminisce, reconnect and make new memories together at the Golden Bears Reunion, a campus tradition since 1978. Registration coming soon.

 

Photo of four women standing together behind a table of Missouri State beads and pom poms. Everyone is smiling and wearing BearWear.
Nov. 14: Homecoming Tailgate
No Homecoming is complete without the Missouri State Alumni Association Tailgate. Join fellow Bears before kickoff to reconnect with friends, celebrate your Missouri State memories and get ready to cheer on the Bears. It's one of Homecoming's favorite traditions, bringing generations of alumni and friends together. More details coming soon.