Fitchburg State University welcomes alumni, students, families and friends to campus for Homecoming 2026, running from Thursday, Nov. 5 to Sunday, Nov. 8.
The weekend celebration will feature a wide array of events, including athletic contests, the Homecoming Carnival, and an Admissions Open House for prospective students and their families.
President Donna Hodge cherishes the annual Homecoming celebration, which is one of the most meaningful traditions at the university.
“Every year, Homecoming highlights the true strength of Fitchburg State: our people,” said Hodge. “Seeing generations of Falcons return to campus reminds us that this isn't just a place where degrees are earned—it’s a lifelong home. The energy, pride, and connection we share during this weekend embody the very best of who we are.”
Homecoming festivities kick off on Thursday, Nov. 5 with a campus pep rally at 3:30 p.m. on the Quad and women’s volleyball vs. Keene State at 6 p.m. in the Recreation Center, 130 North St.
On Friday, Nov. 6, women’s basketball hosts Regis at 6 p.m. in the Recreation Center.
The university will also host a Fall Open House on Saturday, Nov. 7 from 8:30 a.m. to noon, giving prospective students and families the chance to tour the campus, meet faculty, coaches, and staff, and experience Fitchburg State’s vibrant community in action. Register for Open House.
The Homecoming Tailgate runs from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday in the Wallace Civic Center (WCC) parking lot, followed by football vs. Plymouth State at noon at Elliot Field and men’s ice hockey vs. UMass Boston at 4 p.m. at the WCC.
Reserve tickets in advance for football and ice hockey through PurplePass.
“Homecoming weekend brings an energy to campus unlike anything else,” said Fitchburg State Executive Director-Chief Athletics and Recreation Officer Matt Burke. “Our student-athletes feed directly off the noise and passion of the crowd, and we need every single Falcon fan in those seats. Let’s create an unforgettable home-field advantage this weekend. Come back to campus, bring the noise, and pack the stands for all our teams.”
The Carnival, in the Ross Lot, runs from 4-10 p.m. on Saturday. Tickets for the carnival are free for Fitchburg State students and $10 for the general public. Tickets may be purchased online through PurplePass or by visiting fitchburgstate.edu/homecoming.
Homecoming Weekend will conclude with the induction ceremony for Fitchburg State’s Athletic Hall of Fame.
Full schedule and registration details are available at fitchburgstate.edu/homecoming.