The University of Florida’s (UF) 2026 Homecoming celebration continued Friday with a slew of events on and around campus.
Arguably considered one of the more high-energy traditions at UF, Homecoming is a multi-week celebration that brings together students, families, faculty, staff, alumni and the Gainesville community through shared traditions and events.
Some of the Homecoming festivities have already happened, including the Chomp for Charity 5K, Leadership Pageant and Solfest. However, the bulk of the events always take place during the Homecoming weekend.
On Friday morning, the day started with the Homecoming Festival at UF’s Plaza of the Americas. The yearly event brings together students and the community to celebrate and support area businesses and student-run organizations.
The Plaza of the Americas also served as the starting point for the Gator Gallop, a two-mile fun run for all ages through campus.
At noon, crowds wearing orange and blue attire flocked to the streets of Gainesville to watch the UF Homecoming Parade. This year’s parade started at Museum Road (SW 8th Avenue), where it headed north on SW 13th Street to University Avenue. The parade then traveled east on University Avenue, where it eventually ended at Bo Diddley Plaza.
In addition to donning orange and blue attire, some spectators held orange and blue shakers and towels as they waved or did the Gator Chomp to the many parade participants. The participants included local and state officials, high school and UF cheerleaders/bands, and many more.
Friday’s celebrations concluded with the 103rd rendition of Gator Growl. Claimed to be the largest student-run pep rally in the nation, the event will take place at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center (250 Gale Lemerand Drive, Gainesville).
This year’s Gator Growl featured a few changes, including the return of comedy and live skits.
UF Homecoming 2026 concludes on Saturday with the Florida football team hosting South Carolina. Kickoff is set for 12:45 p.m. at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium (121 Gale Lemerand Drive, Gainesville). The game will be broadcast on the SEC Network.
Nick Anschultz is a Report for America corps member and writes about education for Mainstreet Daily News. This position is supported by local donations through the Community Catalyst for Local Journalism Fund at the Community Foundation of North Central Florida.
