'Red, Blue and True': Wildcats past and present to celebrate Homecoming

By Sarah Beaudry, Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement

Today

Homecoming 2025 will feature more than 50 events, including two new alumni gatherings designed to connect Wildcats across generations.

Chris Richards/University Communications

Homecoming 2025 will bring thousands of Wildcats back to campus Nov. 2-8 for a week celebrating the theme "Red, Blue and True." The festivities begin with the traditional lighting of "A" Mountain and culminate as Arizona takes on Kansas in the Homecoming football game.

"This year's activities really focus on the nostalgia and traditions of the university celebrating what it means to be Wildcats for Life," said Jonelle Vold, senior vice president, alumni engagement and prospect development with the University of Arizona Foundation.

Generations of Wildcats can take part in more than 50 events across campus celebrating belonging and school pride. This year's theme also aligns with Military Appreciation Night, which will be observed alongside Homecoming during the Nov. 8 game.

"Homecoming is a celebration for the entire University of Arizona community – students, alumni, faculty, staff and friends. Everyone is invited to be part of the traditions that make us proud to be Wildcats. It's a time to come together, honor our shared history, and create new memories that connect us across generations," Vold said.

New this year

Highlights of the week include two new events designed to connect Wildcats across generations. "Red, Blue and You: A GOLD Gathering" is tailored to graduates of the last decade, or GOLD alumni.

"The event is about starting to build a strong presence for recent alumni," said Vold. "This group represents the future of alumni leadership. They understand what today's students need and what will matter to future graduates."

Sunday's event will include a DJ, a community paint-by-numbers mural led by a student artist and a livestream of the lighting of "A" Mountain.

On Friday, alumni are invited to the "Alumni All-University Happy Hour" on the Communication building lawn designed to unite alumni, faculty and staff across colleges and disciplines. Alumni and fans can receive a 25% discount on all U of A logo clothing and gifts at Campus Store locations on Wildcat Friday.

The 2026 alumni of the year award recipients have been announced and will be honored at the Alumni of the Year Awards Ceremony on Feb. 13, 2026.

Employees are also encouraged to show their pride and wear Wildcat colors throughout Spirit Week leading up to the Homecoming game. Colleges and student organizations will submit their Spirit Week photos for alumni and friends to vote on via Instagram @arizonaalumni.