UIS Homecoming 2025 Alumni and Community Events
The University of Illinois Springfield Alumni Association hopes you'll join us for several fun events planned for homecoming. It's a great time to come back to campus and remember your time as Prairie Star!
Monday, Sept. 15
Theme: Planet Pride Parade - Show pride in your campus organization, department or community by “orbiting together” in coordinated group gear, banners or parade-style displays. It’s a fun nod to our shared galaxy and diverse campus groups your zodiac sign.
Everyday Use and Practical AI
1:30 p.m. - UIS Campus
Join UIS faculty members Dr. Hei Chi Chan and Dr. Neetu Singh for a “hands-on” session exploring practical, real-world applications and usage of Artificial Intelligence in everyday life. This session will showcase the practical tools and technologies that are already transforming how we work, learn, and interact.
Tuesday, Sept. 16
Theme: Written in the Stars: Zodiac Day - Dress in the color of your zodiac sign.
Wednesday, Sept. 17
Theme: Anything but a Bag Day - Carry your books and belongings in anything except a backpack.
Thursday, Sept. 18
Theme: Retrograde Day - Throw it back with retro outfits from any decade — bell bottoms, windbreakers, platform shoes, you name it. Celebrate the past while looking ahead by dressing like your favorite decade, from the 1970s to Y2K. It’s a nod to UIS alumni and the eras that shaped our institution.
Friday, Sept. 19
Theme: Prairie Stars Pride Day - Celebrate UIS by wearing blue and gold, Prairie Stars gear or face paint to showcase school pride and close out the week strong.
Library Commons Groundbreaking
1:30 p.m. - UIS quad, near the Student Union
Join us for a ceremonial groundbreaking for the new Library Commons building.
Prairie Star Block Party
3 p.m. - South of the Student Union
Live music and food available for purchase
Prairie Star Soccer at Kiwanis Stadium
5 p.m. - Women's Soccer vs. Quincy
7:30 p.m. - Men's Soccer vs. Quincy
Friday Night Star Party
8 p.m. - Brookens Library Roof
The UIS Astronomy-Physics program will host in-person Friday Night Star Party at the UIS Campus Observatory.
Star Parties are free and open for everyone. Walk-ups are encouraged and welcome.
Homecoming Fireworks
9 p.m. South of TRAC
Join fellow alumni, faculty, staff and students for a post-game bonfire with fireworks following the Men's Soccer Game. This tradition is sure to ignite your nostalgia!
Saturday, Sept. 20
Prairie Stars 5K
8:30 a.m. outside TRAC
Come out and enjoy the 10th annual Prairie Stars 5K with a flat, easy run/walk through the UIS campus. Grab a friend or your dog to get a T-shirt and have a chance to win a door prize.
Volleyball at TRAC
4 p.m. - Women's Volleyball vs. Maryville
Alumni Gala
5:30 p.m. Student Union Ballroom
Join us Homecoming Week for this year’s gala that promises to be BIGGER and BETTER than ever. Prepare for an unforgettable evening filled with a great dinner and unlimited drinks, lively music, dancing, and so much more. The evening also features the UIS Alumni Awards, celebrating exceptional community members for their achievements.
Additional events will be added at a later date.