Lincoln University Welcomes Jefferson City Community to Homecoming 2026 Events

Join us for Lincoln University's 2026 Homecoming celebration, Sept. 20-26!

Lincoln University of Missouri is inviting the Jefferson City community to join Blue Tigers on campus and downtown during Homecoming 2026, Sept. 20-26, with several events open to the public as the university celebrates its 160th anniversary. The week will feature a full schedule of events and activities, including art, wellness, fellowship, the annual Homecoming Parade and a football game against Upper Iowa University. Several events are free and open to the public. 

Among the week’s featured events is the Florene Dawkins Art Exhibition: The Creation of Collection, set for Thursday, Sept. 24, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall. 

The exhibition will celebrate the lasting legacy of Lincoln University alumna Florene Calvin Dawkins ’77, whose gifts of original artwork continue to inspire the campus community. The university will unveil the latest addition to Dawkins’ donated collection. Dawkins donated 138 pieces of art, rare books and manuscripts to Lincoln University in 2025. Her collection includes an original painting by John Biggers, an African birthing chair and rare African sculptures. 

Homecoming weekend continues Friday, Sept. 25, with the Walk It Out 3K, a community event focused on movement, wellness and connection, sponsored by Hibbett Sports and The Jefferson City Convention & Visitors Bureau. Participants may run, walk or simply enjoy time with fellow Blue Tigers as they kick off Homecoming weekend together. Check-in begins at 7 a.m., and the walk starts at 8 a.m. at The LINC, 1299 Lafayette St., Jefferson City. 

Later that afternoon, Lincoln University will welcome the Jefferson City community, alumni, students, faculty, staff and visitors to the Community Welcome & Ice Cream Social from 2 to 3 p.m. at Soldiers’ Memorial Plaza on the Quad. Local community and state officials are expected to attend the event to help recognize and honor Lincoln University’s 160th anniversary and celebrate Homecoming with the University community. Guests can enjoy complimentary ice cream and cake while connecting with friends and celebrating the partnerships that continue to strengthen Lincoln University and the surrounding community. 

The celebration continues Saturday, Sept. 26, with the annual Lincoln University Homecoming Parade through downtown Jefferson City from 9 to 11 a.m. The 160th Anniversary Homecoming Parade will bring alumni, students, supporters and community members together for one of Homecoming’s signature traditions. 

Following the parade, the Lincoln University Blue Tigers will take on Upper Iowa University in the Homecoming football game at 2 p.m. at Dwight T. Reed Stadium. Tickets are required for the game and are available for purchase online. 

These events are just a selection of the activities planned throughout Homecoming week. Additional events include student activities, alumni events, the Blue Tiger Alumni Homecoming Tailgate and the Homecoming Concert. 

For the latest Homecoming 2026 information and a complete schedule of events, visit Lincoln University's Homecoming webpage.