APSU Homecoming Traditions

Homecoming at Austin Peay State University is built on traditions that bring students, alumni, faculty, staff, and the Clarksville community together every fall. Some date back more than 80 years; others are newer favorites. Together they define what it means to be a Governor during Homecoming Week — a celebration of school spirit, friendly competition, and Govs pride.

Whether you are a prospective student curious about campus culture, an alum returning to reconnect, or a current student ready to compete, here is what makes APSU Homecoming special.

Cheerleaders running onto the field before the game carrying flags that spell out GOVS

The Homecoming Theme

Each year, APSU Homecoming features a unique theme that unites the week's events and competitions. Students submit theme ideas, and organizations weave the chosen theme into performances, banners, floats, and other Homecoming traditions — making every celebration a one-of-a-kind APSU experience. The Student Government Association also produces Homecoming shirts featuring the year's theme and passes them out to students free of charge.

Homecoming Competition

One of APSU's longest-standing Homecoming traditions, the Homecoming Competition celebrates friendly rivalry among student organizations. Throughout Homecoming Week, organizations compete in a variety of events to earn points toward the coveted Homecoming Red Bowl. Organizations may compete individually or team up with up to 3 other organizations for select events, making the competition a showcase of creativity, collaboration, and Governor pride. Winners earn cash prizes, trophies, and Homecoming bragging rights.

The Red Bowl

The Homecoming Red Bowl goes to the student organization that shows the highest level of participation, spirit, creativity, and success across Homecoming Week competition. The winning organization earns Homecoming bragging rights, a trophy, and a $500 cash prize.

sorority member posing for a picture infront of the bonfire with their greek letters flag.

Bonfire

The Bonfire kicks off Homecoming Week with one of APSU's favorite traditions. Governors gather for an evening of school spirit, community, and excitement as we celebrate APSU pride and rally behind the football team. The Homecoming Court is announced at the Bonfire. Students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends are all invited to join the fun.

Govs Got Talent

A student talent showcase held each Homecoming, Govs Got Talent invites students to perform or cheer on their fellow Govs. From singing and dancing to one-of-a-kind acts, the event highlights the creativity and talent found across campus.

Dancers on stage during Govs Got Talent

Banner Competition

The Banner Competition is a longstanding Homecoming tradition that lets student organizations show off their creativity, school spirit, and artistic talent. Organizations design and paint banners inspired by the annual Homecoming theme. The banners are displayed in the Morgan University Center throughout Homecoming Week and judged on creativity, craftsmanship, theme incorporation, and APSU pride.

Smash! Bang! Fight Song Competition

In the Smash! Bang! Fight Song Competition, student organizations bring the APSU fight song to life through original songs, skits, dances, and strolls. This beloved Homecoming tradition celebrates Governor pride, creativity, and school spirit as organizations compete for Homecoming points, prizes, and bragging rights.

Chearleaders on stage holding up lyrics to the fight song.

NPHC Step Show

Each Homecoming, the National Pan-Hellenic Council hosts the Step Show. Experience the energy, tradition, and artistry of stepping as organizations deliver synchronized performances full of creativity and school pride in one of Homecoming's most anticipated events.

Homecoming Parade

The APSU Homecoming Parade is one of the university's most beloved traditions, dating back more than 80 years. Student organizations, alumni, community members, floats, and performers travel through campus and downtown Clarksville to showcase Governor pride and celebrate the spirit and traditions of Austin Peay. Watch parties are hosted around campus so spectators can celebrate together as the parade passes by.

Learn more on the Homecoming Parade page, including the route, best viewing spots, and how to enter.

Door Decorating Contest

Campus departments are invited to show their Homecoming spirit by transforming their doors around the annual theme. Judges select 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners, with each taking home a trophy — and the bragging rights.

Homecoming Service Project

The Homecoming Service Project gives students an opportunity to give back during Homecoming Week. Students come together to serve the campus and Clarksville community, build connections, and show that being a Gov means making a difference on and off campus.

Homecoming Court

The Homecoming Court recognizes outstanding student leaders who embody the values of Austin Peay. Candidates are chosen through student voting and interviews, and the Homecoming King and Queen are announced during halftime of the Homecoming football game.

Learn more on the Homecoming Court page, including eligibility, the selection process, and how to vote.

Winners of the Homecoming Court posing for a picture with previous homecoming queen, the university president and his wife, and the Gov mascot.