5 CofC Homecoming Events You Don't Want to Miss

What time is it? It’s Homecoming time! And with that declaration, the College of Charleston is moving into the homecoming season, with Cougars of all decades returning to the city and institution that helped prepare them for a life of service.

Themed, “Once a Cougar, Always a Cougar,” the College has planned a weeklong schedule of events, Nov. 12–16, that will help everyone reconnect with old friends, celebrate Cougar pride and make new memories.

Here are five things you don’t want to miss for an action-packed CofC Homecoming experience. Check the Homecoming schedule for a full list of events and tickets.

Homecoming Parade

Wed., Nov. 12, 6-6:30 p.m.

What’s homecoming without a parade to kick off the festivities? Join our parade grand marshal, President Andrew T. Hsu, as he and others spread campus pride while riding and walking around the perimeter of the campus. Clyde the Cougar and Chucktown Sound will provide humor and music for the occasion.

The parade’s theme, “Cougars Through the Decades,” invites everyone to have a little fun with nostalgia. Choose your favorite decade, dress the part and help celebrate the spirit of the College!

“The student affairs team from 329 King St. will be in the parade representing the ’90s,” says Alicia Caudill, executive vice president for student affairs (who might be spotted wearing a denim shirt and some khakis and enjoying a ’90s playlist!).

The parade will lead right into the carnival and pep rally at Rivers Green.

National Pan-Hellenic Council Step Show

Thurs., Nov. 13, 7 p.m.
Sottile Theatre

The National Pan-Hellenic Council will host its step show featuring members of the Divine Nine. The NPHC is comprised of historically African American fraternities and sororities. 

“This event will feature intricate, rhythmic routines that showcase the fraternities and sororities culture, history and unity,” says Deronda Washington, senior associate director for the Higdon Center for Student Leadership and Fraternity and Sorority Life. Washington will be donned in pink and green representing Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. 

Be sure to purchase your ticket for this event. All are welcomed to attend.

Tailgate and Men’s Basketball Watch Party

Fri., Nov. 14., 5 p.m.-until

For the first time in university history, you will be able to watch a game live from the Cistern Yard. Join hundreds of other alumni, parents and friends as they watch men’s basketball take on South Carolina State. The tailgate will be fully catered, and there will be plenty of activities and entertainment. For those without tickets to TD Arena, purchase tickets to watch the men’s game from the comfort of the Cistern Yard.

Athletic Events in TD Arena 

Get ready for the Cougars to celebrate victory at three at-home games during Homecoming:

• Women’s Basketball: Fri., Nov. 14, 4 p.m. – Cougars vs. Iona 
• Men’s Basketball: Fri., Nov. 14, 7 p.m. – Cougars vs. South Carolina State
• Volleyball: Sun., Nov. 16, 2 p.m. – Cougars vs. Elon

Tickets for games in TD Arena can be purchased here. 

Oyster Roast

Sat., Nov. 15, 7-10 p.m.
Cistern Yard

The Lowcountry is known for its oysters, and this iconic dish will be on full display at the College’s annual oyster roast in the Cistern Yard. Catch up with old and new friends while exchanging stories and memories from the College of Charleston. The menu includes oysters, whole hog barbecue, chili, hot dogs and all the fixings under the oaks in the heart of campus.

“Concluding Homecoming with the oyster roast brings everything full circle – friends, family and alumni gathering to celebrate the College we all love. It’s a tradition that captures the spirit and hospitality of Charleston,” says Dan Frezza, chief advancement officer and chief executive officer for the College of Charleston Foundation. “Homecoming overall is the perfect illustration of our combined culture of engagement and philanthropy at work.”

Get your tickets before they sell out!