Homecoming Overview & Facts

The Southern Miss homecoming celebration dates back to 1925, when the first fall homecoming was held.

By the 1930s, homecoming had become one of the most popular events at the university, and the 1930 celebration is considered the first year that a parade was organized. For more than 80 years, alumni, friends and supporters of The University of Southern Mississippi have come together each fall to reconnect with their beloved institution.

The 2011 Southern Miss Homecoming weekend presents a special opportunity for the Southern Miss family to come together and celebrate the university’s rich heritage and promising future while taking part in an exciting golden eagle tradition! 

Give Me That Black and Gold!
 

Homecoming traditions

Alumni Hall of Fame

  • Each fall, the Southern Miss Alumni Association inducts outstanding alumni into its prestigious Hall of Fame. Created as part of the university’s 75th anniversary, this event has become a fall tradition. 

Friday Night at the Fountain & T-Shirt Burn

  • Friday Night at the Fountain is a tradition-rich celebration that serves as the official start of tailgating and game-day activities at Southern Miss. Taking place on Centennial Green, this pep-rally concert begins at 7 p.m. This year’s homecoming Friday Night at the Fountain will also feature The Legacy’s annual t-shirt burn.

Homecoming Parade

  • The Southern Miss Homecoming parade will again return to its historic downtown route along Front and Main streets. As one of the university’s oldest traditions, the parade will include floats, the Pride of Mississippi Marching Band, current and alumnae members of the Dixie Darlings, Southern Miss athletes and much more.
  • The Southern Miss homecoming parade originally traveled through downtown Hattiesburg on its way to the university campus, but was rerouted along Hardy Street and through campus in the 1980s.

Tailgating

  • Tailgating is an opportunity for alumni, friends, fans and students to gather on game-day for food, fellowship and fun. Popular gathering spots include The District, Pride Field, the Centennial Green and Danforth Chapel Lawn.

Eagle Walk

  • An unrivaled parade, a march into war, Eagle Walk is led by President Saunders, The Pride, The Dixie Darlings, cheerleaders and Seymour as the football team marches through campus on its way to the locker room. The Eagle Walk begins on West Memorial Drive two hours before kickoff.

Game & 5th Quarter Concert

  • SMU visits The Rock. For tickets or more information, contact the ticket office at 800.844.TICK. During the 5th Quarter concert by The Pride, fans will be treated to a post-game Homecoming finale fireworks show.