Homecoming & Family Day

Celebrate Homecoming and Family Weekend on October 16 - 18th! Join us for a fun-filled weekend with festivities for all. Come home to WP to gather with friends and classmates for a concert, pre-game tailgate, enjoy a family carnival, and cheer on the athletic teams! 

Friday, October 16, 2026
7:00 - 10:00 p.m. | Shea Center for Performing Arts 
7:00 - 8:00 p.m. | Concert 
8:30 - 10:00 p.m. | Jam Session
Powerhouse of Sound! Join us for a music concert featuring WP's celebrated Music program and its students, followed by a jam session for alumni, students, and faculty!

Saturday, October 17, 2026
9:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.  | Tailgate | Lot 2
Alumni, students, faculty, staff and community members are welcome to bring food, drinks and grills for a traditional tailgate experience. View the campus map and the Tailgating Guidelines.

11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.  | Pioneer Carnival | Practice Field
There will be fun for the whole family, including game booths, prizes, food and more!

1:00 p.m.  | WP Football vs TCNJ | Wightman Stadium
Let's "Orange Out the Stands" by wearing as much orange as possible!

5:00 p.m. | WP Women's Soccer Match | Pioneer Soccer Park

Sunday, October 18, 2026
10 a.m. - 12 Noon | University Commons Ballrooms
Farewell Bubbly Brunch featuring Reunion Years (5th through 50th!)

Registration and fees to come!

WP Homecoming/Family Weekend Hotel Discounts! Both hotels are around the corner from campus off of the Valley Road extension in Wayne, NJ. Simply call the number and request the discount!

Residence Inn Marriott: 973.872.7100

Discounts are provided as a courtesy to our alumni and friends. William Paterson University does not endorse or assume liability for the services provided by third-party vendors.

Check out the Homecoming/Family Day 2025 photo gallery (photos 1) (photos 2) (photos 3)!