Mercer University will welcome thousands of alumni and friends to the Macon campus Nov. 14-15 for Homecoming 2025. The University looks forward to welcoming back generations of Mercerians to celebrate Mercer’s past, present, and future.

“There’s nothing like Homecoming at Mercer,” said B. Todd Smith, associate vice president for university advancement and executive director of the Mercer Alumni Association. “Every Homecoming feels like a family reunion, and we can’t wait to see our alumni and friends back on campus, sharing memories, making new ones and showing their Bear pride all weekend long!”

The Office of Alumni Engagement has partnered with other University entities to offer a full schedule of events for alumni, families and friends during the celebration weekend. 

Homecoming Weekend Highlights:

Friday, Nov. 14

Annual Alumni Career Speaker Series

10-11 a.m.

Locations across campus 

Annual Alumni and Friends Awards Reception (Invitation Only)

5:30 p.m. 

Presidents Dining Room, University Center

Honoring the University’s major alumni awards recipients, Alumni By Choice and the Mercer Athletic Hall of Fame’s newest induction class. This event is by invitation only.

QuadWorks Lip Sync Competition

6:30 p.m. 

Toney Auditorium in Willingham Hall  

Homecoming Pep Rally and Fireworks

8:15 p.m. 

Hawkins Arena 

Saturday, Nov. 15

Homecoming 5K 

8 a.m.

Participants start at Five Star Stadium and race through the University’s beautiful campus. 

Registration is $20 in advance. Please note that online registration will close at noon on Friday, but participants may still sign up for the race on the morning of the event at the race site/start at 7:45 a.m. 

The Half Century Club Induction and Celebration

11 a.m. 

University Center intramural courts

Honoring undergraduate alumni who graduated 50 or more years ago. This event is by invitation only. 

Bear Walk

12:30 p.m.

Across campus

The football team, band and cheerleaders make their way to Five Star Stadium.

Ford Concert Series-Drivin ’N Cryin

12:30 p.m.

Black Field

Tailgating and Football Game

Several tailgating opportunities will be available before the football team’s 3 p.m. game when the Bears will face off against the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Mocs. Before kick-off, Black Field will include activities for all ages. Drop by the Alumni and Friends tent and tailgate, starting at 11 a.m., for Homecoming t-shirts, food and swag—first come, first served, as supplies last. 

These are just a few of the events available throughout the weekend. To view the complete Homecoming 2025 schedule, visit homecoming.mercer.edu/schedule and find answers to frequently asked questions here. 

Registration is required for select events, and registration instructions vary by event. Guests are encouraged to consult the online schedule before arriving on campus.