Every year, the University of South Carolina welcomes back alumni to celebrate Homecoming. The theme of this year’s Homecoming is “Under a Carolina Sky,” in reference to the opening video played in Williams-Brice Stadium before home football games. Homecoming allows every Gamecock, past, present and future, to come together to celebrate. Here’s a list of highlights.
Cockstock
Every year, the Homecoming Commission kicks off the week with an annual concert called Cockstock. Past performers include T-Pain and 21 Savage. Taking the stage this year is the “Talk too Much” performer, pop-indie band COIN. The concert will be held on Greene Street on Oct. 6, and will be free to students with a valid Carolina Card.
Paint a banner
Students and organizations are invited to paint banners that will hang at the Russell House Patio during the week. Paint a Banner will be held on Greene Street from noon to 2 p.m. Oct. 9.
Also Oct. 9, there will be a co-ed powderpuff football game. (Action from last year's game is captured in our banner image.) Sign up on Garnet Gate to participate in the tournament-style game or just bring some friends and watch while enjoying some refreshments.
Relaxing Tuesday
After giving it your all in the powderpuff game, enjoy a relaxing Tuesday that starts with the Carolina Skyflow: Yoga and Breakfast Bash. The morning yoga session will be on Davis Field with breakfast for participants.
Later that night, return to Davis Field to enjoy the Gamecock picture show, which will be The Game Plan. Make sure to bring a blanket and enjoy the movie while partaking in popcorn and other refreshments.
Wednesday is for music and dancing
Hip Hop Wednesday will once again take over Greene Street. Enjoy music from DJs, get some food and hang out with friends.
Spurs & Struts is a student dance competition hosted in the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center. Come early to get a seat as this is one of the most popular annual homecoming events. Stay till the end of the show to see this year’s winners as well as the vote for your favorite to win the fan vote.
Thursday before and after dark
The excitement isn’t quite over. Students will be back at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center on Thursday to watch the annual NPHC Step Show. Cheer on your favorite chapter as they compete for a winner.
The weekly Thursday After Dark will be welcoming back to campus USC alumni and local artist Summer Rogers. Rogers will be hosting a paint class in the Russell House Ballroom from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Paint the Town Garnet and Black
Join the Homecoming Commission in Five Points for the Paint the Town Garnet and Black Block Party on Oct. 13. Hosted in the Five Points Mural parking lot, there will be live music, games, USC merchandise and food. Show off your Gamecock spirit with our local businesses.
Saturday in South Carolina
By far the best day of any week in the fall. Homecoming is never complete without a football game. Catch the Gamecocks back in action at Williams-Brice Stadium when they take on the Florida Gators. Before the game, make sure to stop by Greene Street for a tailgate with the Substance Abuse Prevention Education office.