Upper Iowa University Announces 2026 Homecoming Schedule

"Saddle Up, Peacocks!" is the theme for a week of Peacock pride and tradition Oct. 5-11

Fayette, IA (08/25/2026) — Upper Iowa University (UIU) will welcome students, alumni, families, friends, and members of the Peacock community to Fayette Oct. 5-11 for Homecoming 2026. This year's celebration, themed "Saddle Up, Peacocks!", features a full week of athletic events, alumni gatherings, campus traditions, social activities, and opportunities to reconnect with the UIU community.

Homecoming festivities begin Monday, Oct. 5, with Blue Pride Worldwide, inviting Peacocks everywhere to decorate their homes, offices, classrooms, businesses, and windows in the blue and white spirit of Homecoming. Throughout the week, boots, hats, and Western flair are encouraged.

The week's schedule includes several new and returning events, giving current students and alumni plenty of opportunities to celebrate together.

Homecoming Week Highlights

Monday, Oct. 5

The Fayette Campus BBQ will kick off Monday evening from 5-6:30 p.m. at the Peacock Pavilion, followed by the Pep Rally, Coronation & Bonfire at 7 p.m. The annual tradition will recognize the 2026 Homecoming Court and crown the Homecoming King and Queen.

Tuesday, Oct. 6

Peacock fans can cheer on UIU Volleyball as the Peacocks take on Clarke at 6 p.m. in Dorman Gymnasium. Later that evening, Paint & Sip - Western Edition, at Pete's Bar & Grill, will offer participants the opportunity to paint and personalize their own white cowboy hat.

Wednesday, Oct. 7

Homecoming continues with Men's and Women's Soccer facing Truman State at Harms-Eischeid Stadium at 2:30 and 5 p.m., the always delicious Chick-fil-A food truck in the tailgate area, followed by the student Powderpuff Football competition.

Thursday, Oct. 8

Alumni are invited to the Welcome Home Dinner at Pete's Bar & Grill at 5:30 p.m., hosted by President & CFO Kathy Franken, her husband, Chuck, and members of the UIU Board of Trustees. The evening continues with Line Dance from 7:30-10 p.m., featuring local celebrity musician Steve Schroeder.

Friday, Oct. 9

Friday offers a full slate of activities, including the Alumni Association Meet & Greet, the 6th Annual Golf Fundraiser, and Make Your Mark at UIU, where alumni, students, and employees can leave their handprint on the third-floor wall of Henderson-Wilder Library.

The 50th Reunion Reception will honor the Class of 1976, while the Experiential Learning Showcase will highlight UIU students' internships, research, study abroad experiences, and other professional opportunities.

Friday evening brings the Homecoming Ball, "Night of the Peacocks," at 5 p.m. in the Student Center Ballroom. The signature event will feature a hosted cocktail reception, dinner, games, special surprises, and recognition of the 2026 Athletics Hall of Fame inductees. Proceeds from the event support the UIU Excellence Fund. All are welcome to attend, and tickets are on sale now. Volleyball action also heats up at 6 p.m. in Dorman Gym, as the ladies face Rockhurst.

Saturday, Oct. 10

Homecoming Saturday begins with the Alumni Awards & Honor Class Breakfast and the All-Class Morning Mixer, both taking place from 8-10 a.m.

The day continues with live music in the tailgate area, the annual Homecoming Parade at 10:30 a.m., and the Alumni House Tailgate Party from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

At 1 p.m., Peacock fans will gather at Harms-Eischeid Stadium for the Homecoming Football Game against Truman State. The Homecoming Grand Marshal will participate in the coin toss, while Hall of Fame inductees, Alumni Award honorees, and members of the 50-year class will be recognized on the field.

The day concludes with UIU Volleyball facing William Jewell at 5 p.m. in Dorman Gymnasium.

Sunday, Oct. 11

Homecoming Week wraps up with Men's and Women's Soccer taking on Drury at Harms-Eischeid Stadium at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

The full Homecoming schedule, event details, and RSVP information are available at go.uiu.edu/hc26.

Homecoming sponsorship opportunities are also available. Proceeds from sponsorships benefit the UIU Excellence Fund, supporting students and emerging needs across the University.

For more information about Homecoming sponsorship opportunities, contact Ashley Gredys, vice president for advancement and alumni engagement, at gredysa@uiu.edu or 563-425-5348.

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