There’s truly no place like Homecoming at Indiana University, and it all kicks off with a beloved parade. From elaborate floats by student organizations to performances by the IU Marching Hundred and Alumni Band, the Homecoming parade is where tradition meets celebration.
The 2025 IU Homecoming parade begins at 5:15 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, marking the traditional kickoff to Homecoming weekend. The parade starts at the intersection of 17th Street and Woodlawn Avenue, traveling south on Woodlawn and concluding at Seventh Street. Following the parade, the festivities continue at 7:30 p.m. with a pep rally in Dunn Meadow, setting the stage for Saturday’s game against Michigan State.
The IU Homecoming parade is a cherished tradition that has evolved into a large showcase of university pride and community involvement. The tradition’s roots trace back to the University’s “Gala Week” in 1908, the first homecoming event for alumni which included a circus and banquet. One of the earliest references of a homecoming parade goes back to 1923, with a photograph of a float from IU’s 1923 Homecoming parade.
Some notable floats since then include Sigma Nu’s Viking Ship float that won in 1958. The float featured a full-scale Viking boat with a dragon head at the front, striped sails, and oars spelling out “I.N.D.I.A.N.A” extending from the sides. The school of optometry's “IU Eye” from 1959 featured an oversized eyeball wearing its own pair of sunglasses, with the saying “Eye U Makes Spectacle of U.N.” In 1978, the parade featured notable IU alumna Jane Pauley as honorary parade marshal. She appeared on a western-themed “Round-Up Hoosiers” float, dressed in cowboy attire complete with a hat.
In 2025, the parade continues this legacy. Spectators can enjoy a variety of performances and displays along the parade route, including choreographed routines, themed costumes and creative floats from student organizations and local businesses. Attendees will also see the IU Marching Hundred, including the IU Marching Hundred Alumni Band, performing live music.
The 2025 Homecoming theme is “There’s No Place Like Homecoming.” Parade participants are encouraged to creatively incorporate this theme into their floats, costumes and performances, reminding attendees to celebrate what makes IU feel like home. Participating organizations can compete for plaques and trophies awarded at the end of the event.
Entries compete in one of four divisions, float, decorated car, walking or musical. Entries are judged on creativity, theme, presentation and performance, with floats and cars evaluated for spectator appeal and walking or musical groups for costumes and choreography. Winners in each category receive a plaque, and the overall parade champion receives a trophy.
Spectators can line the streets on Woodlawn Avenue to enjoy the festivities. Arrive early to secure the best viewing spots, as prime locations can fill up quickly. Free parking is available Friday at Memorial Stadium and in lots near Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall, Bill Garrett Fieldhouse and other nearby athletic facilities.
However, attendees should be cautious about leaving cars in lots overnight, as the car may be ticketed or towed. Expect heavy traffic throughout Bloomington during Homecoming weekend and plan for extra travel time.
Monitor official IU Alumni Association channels for the latest event details or schedule changes.
