Campus will be festively decorated to reflect the homecoming theme “Neyland Night Lights” to embody the vibrant spirit of a late-night football game at Neyland Stadium.
UT’s first homecoming took place in 1916. While World War I delayed its status as an annual celebration until 1925, UT has hosted homecoming every year since, except for 1943, when students chose to donate event funds to the Red Cross.
Over the years, UT traditions have thrived by consistently reflecting the pride of the Volunteers while preserving a variety of customs.
UT homecoming game
One of the most popular traditions is the exciting football game that occurs during homecoming week. This year the Vols are set to play Mississippi State University.
The first Homecoming game in 1916 was an exciting win as the Vols beat Vanderbilt. Following the victory, former UT President Brown Ayres designated Monday as a holiday to enable the ongoing celebration.
First homecoming parade
UT’s initial homecoming parade featured the university cadet corps in ceremonial uniforms as the band led the way.
The band eventually achieved the title “Pride of the Southland” in the 1940s. About 15 years later, the parade added the addition of decorated floats.
For Homecoming 2024, since its inception, several new elements have been added to the parade including an updated route and themed floats. The parade will start on Volunteer Boulevard and proceed north and end at Circle Park and Peyton Manning Pass.
Before the march, there will be various activities to indulge in for Rocky Top Rally near the Torchbearer.
Homecoming queen
Betty Walker was UT’s first homecoming queen in 1950. This tradition lasted until 1970 when a Beacon columnist, Vince Staten, won the most votes but was not named queen as his candidacy was considered invalid.
This tradition came back to life in the 1980s when Shannon Whittington was voted homecoming queen. She made UT history as she was the first African American to win this event.
Eventually, the title transformed to a Miss Homecoming in the early 2000s which later turned into Homecoming Highnesses in 2013.
Smokey’s Howl
Smokey’s Howl is well known for echoing Smokey’s signature howl, rallying students to cheer loudly and turning it into a competitive event. This tradition dates to the early 1990s and continues to be a part of the homecoming festivities.
For 2024, Smokey’s Howl will be on Thursday, Nov. 3, at the Alumni Memorial Building Cox Auditorium.
Annual Southeastern Stomp Fest
The Annual Southeastern Stomp Fest has been a part of UT since 1999 features stepping performances by sororities and fraternities. These lively performances are hosted by the Office of Multicultural Student Life, Black Cultural Programming Committee and the National Society of Black Engineers.
100th anniversary homecoming traditions
2016 marked the centennial celebration of homecoming traditions at UT. In honor of this milestone, UT brought back some old traditions such as the Barnwarmin’ Dance. This funky tradition began in 1921 and was crafted by the Agricultural Club.
The specific type of dance was a mix of social dances including round dancing. Not only does this call for plenty of grooving but also includes predictive readings and unique musical performances.
The practice of the Barnwarmin’ ended in 1943 as several men were enlisted for the military and the tradition never resurfaced.
