As the calendar flips to November, USC is gearing up for a later-than-usual Homecoming, with student events kicking off Nov. 2 and culminating with the football game against Texas A&M on Nov. 7 at 3 p.m. This year’s Homecoming celebration is the first with leadership from the Carolina Traditions Council and boasts a week of fun gatherings, giveaways and events, from the Homecoming Kick-Off Carnival at Blatt Field to annual traditions like Spurs and Struts and NPHC Step Show at Colonial Life Arena.

Student Events

Monday (Nov. 2)

Homecoming Kick-Off Carnival in partnership with Carolina Productions
6-8 p.m. | Blatt Field
Kick off Homecoming Week with a night of food, games, music and fun at the Homecoming Carnival! Grab your friends, enjoy carnival favorites, play games and celebrate the start of an exciting week at Carolina.  

Wednesday (Nov. 4)

Hip-Hop Wednesday
11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Greene Street
Hip Hop Wednesday is a Carolina tradition that brings students together to celebrate music, connection and community. With a live DJ and tabling from student orgs, campus offices and community partners, it’s the perfect way to connect, vibe and recharge in the middle of the week.

Spurs and Struts
6-8 p.m. | Colonial Life Arena
Ready to watch your favorite organizations hit the dance floor? Make your way to CLA and see one of the most popular and most memorable annual events on USC's campus! Doors will open at 5 p.m. and teams hit the dance floor at 6 p.m.

Mr. and Miss BUSC
7-9 p.m. | Russell House Ballroom
The Association of African American Students invites you to an evening of opulence with the 2026 Mr. and Miss BUSC Pageant.
Get your tickets here!

Thursday (Nov. 5)

NPHC Step Show
6-8 p.m. | Colonial Life Arena
Join the National Pan-Hellenic Council for the annual NPHC Step Show, also making the move to Colonial Life Arena for 2026! Come out for an exciting night celebrating NPHC culture, community and Homecoming spirit. 

Paint & Sip with Summer Doodles
7-10 p.m. | Russell House Ballroom
Join USC alum Summer Rogers, aka Summer Doodles, for the Homecoming Week edition of Thursday After Dark for a fun and creative evening of painting. We’ll design a USC-themed canvas to help everyone get into the Gamecock spirit.

Saturday (Oct. 25)

USC vs. Texas A&M 
3 p.m. | Williams-Brice Stadium
Pack Willy B in your garnet and black, bring the noise and show the Aggies what Gamecock pride looks like. Let’s make it a night to remember. Go Gamecocks!

Alumni Events

Friday (Nov. 6)

Richard T. Greener Scholarship Breakfast
8-10:30 a.m. | Pastides Alumni Center (This event is now sold out)
Hosted by the Black Alumni Council, this annual event unites alumni, students and friends in celebration and support of the Richard T. Greener Scholarship. This fund provides essential financial assistance to deserving USC students.

Homecoming on the Horseshoe
6-10 p.m. | The Horseshoe
Enjoy an unforgettable evening under the stars, featuring live music, refreshing drinks and classic Southern fare. Reconnect with old friends, make new memories and dance the night away beneath the iconic live oaks. Register for your ticket to attend.

Saturday (Nov. 7)

Homecoming Tailgate
Noon | Gamecock Park
Join the Homecoming tailgate party before you head to Williams-Brice Stadium to cheer on the Gamecocks against Texas A&M!
Get your ticket here.

Sunday (Nov. 8)

Rainbow Brunch
11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Pastides Alumni Center
Celebrate the close of Homecoming Weekend with an unforgettable brunch full of joy, community and purpose — all in support of the LGBTQ+ Alumni Council’s Inclusive Excellence Scholarship. Register to attend!

Fall 2026 Ring Ceremony hosted by Garnet Circle and the USC Alumni Association
2 p.m. | The Horseshoe
Students with 60+ credit hours and alumni who have placed their official ring orders are invited to take part in this meaningful tradition. Each participant will be honored as they receive their USC ring — symbolizing achievement, pride and a lifelong bond with the Carolina family.

Also: Leave your mark on Carolina’s history with a personalized brick on the Horseshoe. Whether it’s your name and class year or a tribute to someone you love, your brick tells a story that lasts a lifetime.