Every winter, Drexel brings its campus to life with one of its most cherished and time-honored traditions: Homecoming.
Unlike many universities that host a Homecoming celebration in the fall, Drexel’s celebration takes place in January, making it a distinctive winter tradition that reflects the spirit and pride of the Dragon community. Drexel’s Homecoming is a time for students, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends and family of the University to reconnect, celebrate shared experiences, and show their Dragon pride through a full slate of events.
This year, Drexel’s Homecoming spans several days, with many activities leading up to the main weekend. The celebration officially centers around Jan. 23rd – 24th, but the excitement and festivities begin earlier in the week with campus-wide competitions and social gatherings. These early events help to build anticipation for the coming weekend while encouraging students to showcase their creativity and school spirit.
One of the first Homecoming traditions is the Homecoming Window Decorating Competition. Running throughout the day on Jan. 19th, students are invited to form a team and participate by decorating the windows in the lobby area for the Rec Center. If you do not want to compete, you can also take part in the judging. There are prizes for the team that receives the most votes.
One of the more iconic and anticipated events is the Homecoming Bonfire, held on Friday evening along Lancaster Walk. This event serves as the official kickoff to the Homecoming weekend. Students, alumni, and guests gather around the fire to warm up, roast s’mores, and reconnect with fellow Dragons. The bonfire embodies the heart of the community, tradition, and shared pride within Drexel, making it a memorable experience for both first-time attendees and returning alumni.
Athletics play a major role in Homecoming. Throughout the weekend, Drexel hosts a variety of sporting events, including basketball games and other competitions, such as swimming and diving meets. The Homecoming Basketball Game, held at the Daskalakis Athletic Center, is a centerpiece event that draws enthusiastic crowds eager to cheer on Drexel’s student-athletes. These games offer a spirited environment where school pride is on full display.
The celebration also includes the Homecoming Court, made up of full-time undergraduate and graduate students who will serve as official student representatives throughout Homecoming. Court members will be selected based on student vote, and an announcement of the winners will be made during the Men’s basketball game on Jan. 24th. One lucky Dragon will be chosen to be the ‘Royal Dragon’ – an honor that will also be announced and accompanied by a $500 scholarship. In addition to the Homecoming court, Drexel legends Malik Rose ‘96 and Coach Bill Herrion will be inducted into the Athletics Hall of Fame as a part of the celebration.
Drexel Homecoming is more than just a weekend of events: it is a celebration of tradition, connection, and Dragon pride. Whether gathering around the bonfire, attending an athletic event, or connecting with fellow students, Homecoming offers something for everyone and reinforces what it means to be part of the Drexel community.