RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. — Mahjong, bingo, a home run derby, a 5K, plenty of old friends and, eventually, a little football.
Arkansas Tech University is getting ready for Homecoming 2026, with nearly a week of events leading up to the Wonder Boys’ Saturday afternoon matchup with East Central.
Homecoming week runs Oct. 5-10, with events geared toward alumni, students and the community.
And Tech isn’t easing into things quietly.
The week begins Monday with Mahjong and Mingle at Williamson Hall, followed by a Homecoming pep rally at Simmons Bank Field at Thone Stadium.
Then things really pick up Friday.
Golfers can hit the course for the annual Homecoming Classic at Russellville Country Club, while those who prefer their competition indoors can try their luck at the Homecoming Bingo Luncheon. Later in the day, runners — and younger runners — can take part in the Fight On 5K and Kids’ Golden Mile.
Friday night will also include a Hall of Distinction members reception and a Black Alumni and Friends Block Party.
Saturday is when the campus really fills up.
Former Wonder Boys baseball players will return to Carl Baswell Field for a reunion that includes a home run derby and alumni game, while former Golden Suns softball players will have an alumni game of their own. There are also reunions celebrating 30 years of the Honors Program and 50 years of Rehabilitation Science, along with gatherings for study abroad alumni and several graduating classes.
Tech will also recognize its 2026 “19 of the Last 9” honorees Saturday morning. The award’s unusual name is a nod to Arkansas Tech’s founding in 1909 and recognizes 19 graduates from the past nine years who have emerged as leaders in their professions and communities. This year’s group includes graduates working in fields ranging from veterinary medicine and nursing to law enforcement, broadcasting and airport management.
By lunchtime, much of the attention shifts to Centennial Plaza.
Several alumni groups will gather there beginning at noon, and Party at the Plaza will serve as the main tailgating spot before the football game. ATU is also inviting prospective students and their families to the tailgate, where they can meet faculty and student organizations and take a look around campus.
The Homecoming king and queen will be crowned at 3:30 p.m., followed by the Wonder Boys taking on the East Central Tigers at 4 p.m. at Simmons Bank Field.
And for anyone not quite ready to call it a night after the game, there are more alumni gatherings Saturday evening.
Registration is required for some Homecoming events and is available through the ATU Alumni Association.
