2026 Homecoming & Family Weekend Media Resources
"All Roads Lead Home"
September 23–27, 2026
Inspired by the Route 66 Centennial, this year's Homecoming & Family Weekend will celebrate the miles we've traveled, the memories we've made, and the Cougar connections that always lead us home to SIUE. This year's Homecoming theme is "All Roads Lead Home."
Send us an email for exclusives or if your media outlet plans on attending!
Signature Events
COUGARFEST - Rock the Quad! + New Drone Show Spectacular!
Friday, Sept. 25 | 7–10 p.m. | Stratton Quad
- Live music by Jackson and Mars
- Food trucks
- Lawn games and interactive activities
- Family-friendly entertainment
- New Route 66-themed drone show
Hundreds of illuminated drones will transform the night sky into an aerial celebration of adventure, nostalgia, and Cougar pride. The drone show is supported by a Route 66 Centennial Commission grant.
Cougar Fan Zone + Paws on Route 66 Car Show + SIUE vs. Southern Indiana
Saturday, Sept. 26 | 4–7 p.m. | Korte Stadium Parking Lot
- New Homecoming car show featuring classic, vintage, muscle, antique, hot rod, and specialty vehicles.
- Music, food trucks, giveaways, inflatables, and family activities
- Fan zone preps for SIUE men’s soccer vs. Southern Indiana at 7 p.m.
Cougars Unleashed Homecoming Run & Pancake Breakfast
Saturday, Sept. 26 | 9 a.m. | Stratton Quad
The annual Cougars Unleashed Homecoming Run welcomes participants of all ages and abilities.
- 5K
- 10K
- Fun Run
- Participants enjoy a pancake breakfast from Chris Cakes and family-friendly activities following the race.
- Proceeds benefit student scholarships and alumni programming through the SIUE Alumni Association Scholarship Fund.
- Special registration rates are available for SIUE students and alumni.
Media Resources
Homecoming & Family Weekend Website 2026 Logos For Download 2025 Homecoming & Family Weekend Recap Video Recent Homecoming History 1967-1970 Homecoming History
