Homecoming

Homecoming at NAU is a spirited tradition that unites students, alumni, faculty, staff, and the local community. It’s a weekend to celebrate everything that makes being a Lumberjack unforgettable.

Mark your calendar! Homecoming 2026 is happening October 15-17. From the bonfire and pep rally to the alumni brunch and football game, it’s a weekend packed with pride, tradition, and celebration. Join us on campus and in the Flagstaff community for this special annual event.

Celebrate Homecoming weekend!

There’s something for everyone during Homecoming. Students, families, alumni, and guests are all invited to join the fun.

Share your Homecoming moments. Tag your photos and memories with #NAUHomecoming2026 and you might see your post featured during the events!

Wednesday, October 14

Wear It Wednesday

Union Point, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. (student only event)

Get ready for Homecoming by creating your own Lumberjack gear! Students are invited to personalize T-shirts, hats, fanny packs, buttons, and more with NAU-inspired designs (while supplies last), then show off their school spirit throughout Homecoming.

Thursday, October 15

Dedicatee Banquet

Ashurst Auditorium, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Recognizing a faculty or staff member who has made a big impact on campus. Get your tickets now!

Traditions Day

Union/Lot P16, 4 p.m. 

Kick off the weekend connecting with friends and classmates at a pep rally, bonfire, and chili cook-off. Hourly parking available in the San Francisco Parking Garage or by using the Park Mobile app.

Friday, October 16

ASNAU Carnival

Union (west side, lot P16), 4 p.m. - 11p.m. (student-only event)

Grab your friends and enjoy games, attractions, music, food, and nonstop fun as Lumberjacks come together to celebrate school spirit and make unforgettable memories. Open to undergraduate and graduate students. Tickets available for statewide/online students coming soon.

Saturday, October 17

Café au Louie Alumni Breakfast

1899 Bar and Grill, 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Homecoming begins with a shared table. At Café au Louie, join fellow Lumberjacks across generations for a hearty buffet and great conversation as old friends reconnect and new connections take shape. From there, continue the celebration across campus at the Campus Open House, gather at the tailgate, and cheer on the Jacks at the game. Don’t miss the exclusive NAU Bookstore pop-up featuring your favorite Lumberjack apparel and gear. Get your tickets now!

Campus Open House

Across campus, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Celebrate Homecoming by exploring the many corners of NAU that make our university extraordinary. Visit participating colleges, departments, and student spaces across campus through interactive exhibits, tours, and hands-on experiences that showcase student success and university impact. Pick up a passport, explore multiple locations, and submit your completed card at the Homecoming Tailgate for a chance to win a prize. Whether you're reconnecting with familiar places or discovering something new, this is your opportunity to see how today’s Lumberjacks learn, lead, and thrive.

Tailgate and football game

J. Lawrence Walkup Skydome and surrounding areas, 12 p.m.
Football kickoff at 4 p.m.

Gather with friends and cheer on your Lumberjacks as they take on the Portland State Vikings. Get your tickets now! Parking and shuttles are available from lot P62.

Putt in the Pines

Union Fieldhouse, 6 - 9 p.m.

Grab some pals and a putter for a night of mini-golf fun! Enjoy laughs, friendly competition, and plenty of Homecoming spirit. Putt in the Pines is open for the community to attend.

Show your Lumberjack spirit

Learn the NAU fight song, throw your L-J hand sign, and gear up in blue and gold. Whether you're cheering from the stands, reconnecting with fellow Lumberjacks, or exploring campus traditions, these experiences unite us and bring Homecoming spirit to life.

A century of Homecoming tradition

NAU hosted its first Homecoming in 1924 with a football game at McMullen Field. The event grew into an annual tradition by 1925 and has continued ever since. In 2024, NAU celebrated 100 years of Homecoming pride, including longtime traditions like the Dedicatee Banquet, added in 1936.