ASU Homecoming Week: Events, Tailgating, and What to Bring
ASU Homecoming is one of the biggest weeks on campus. Here's what actually happens, how tailgating works, and how to not miss the good stuff.
Homecoming at ASU Is a Whole Week, Not Just a Game
ASU Homecoming typically falls in October — for 2026, watch for the official announcement from the ASU Student Government, but it's almost always tied to an early-to-mid October home football game at Mountain America Stadium (formerly Sun Devil Stadium). The week leading up to the game is when most of the campus activity happens.
Here's the breakdown of what's worth your time.
The Week's Events
The events during homecoming week are run by ASU Student Government (ASUSG) and various student organizations. The specific lineup changes each year, but the recurring anchors include:
Parade: ASU's homecoming parade goes through campus and into the surrounding streets, usually on the Wednesday or Thursday before the game. It's fun if you've never been and feel like something traditional. Student organizations, Greek life, and various clubs participate.
Pep Rally: Usually the night before the game. The energy is high, there are often performances, and it's a good time to see the campus at night with the stadium lighting. Worth going once.
Block Parties and Club Events: Various organizations host events throughout the week. Check the ASUSG calendar and your organization's announcements. The quality varies but there's usually at least one genuinely good event on Thursday or Friday.
Spirit Days: Different themes each day — check the ASU social media accounts and ASUSG announcements for the specific schedule. These are low-effort and kind of fun if your class or work schedule overlaps with them.
Tailgating at Mountain America Stadium
The tailgate at ASU football games is a significant part of the experience. Mountain America Stadium is on the east side of campus, and the surrounding lots and fields open hours before kickoff for tailgating.
What to bring:
- A cooler with drinks and food — food inside the stadium is expensive
- Sunscreen and a hat — October in Tempe still hits 90°F+ for afternoon games
- Comfortable shoes you can stand in for 4–5 hours
- Your student ID for the student section entrance (separate from the general gates)
- Cash for parking if you're driving — card readers occasionally have issues
- A portable phone charger — your phone will be at 20% by halftime
Tailgate tips:
- The student lots are east of the stadium; your parking permit matters for where you can set up
- Arrive at least 2 hours before kickoff if you want a good spot
- Some student organizations host official tailgates with food and games — check if your organization or Greek chapter has something
Getting to the Game Without a Car
The light rail has a stop near the stadium (Veterans Way/College Avenue station). On game days, trains run more frequently and they're crowded — arrive earlier than usual. This is genuinely the easiest way to get to a game if you're coming from anywhere on the light rail line.
The campus shuttles also run on game days. Check the ASU app for game-day specific routes.
The Student Section
ASU's student section at Mountain America Stadium is in the north end zone. Student tickets are separate from general admission and require your Sun Card. If you want to be in the actual student section with the band and the general student energy, you need the student ticket — not a regular ticket.
Get there early if you want a seat with sightlines. The standing area fills up fast for big games.
Homecoming Court and Other Traditions
ASU has a homecoming court elected by students, announced during the pep rally or at halftime of the game. Whether you care about this is personal, but the halftime show is usually worth watching regardless.
The bonfire, which some schools do, isn't a consistent ASU tradition — but watch for events announcements in case something similar is planned for your year.
The Day After
Homecoming Saturday nights on Mill Avenue and in the neighborhoods around campus are busy. Plan accordingly — Ubers will surge, parking will be worse than usual, and every restaurant will have a wait. If you're heading to Mill after the game, go to a less central spot or just expect to wait.
Budget for It
Homecoming week can be expensive if you're not paying attention. Student tickets to the football game, tailgate supplies, and going out adds up. Set a number before the week starts and stick to it. The week is more fun when you're not stressed about money.
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