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University of Maryland Homecoming
Visiting Campus Spirit & Traditions Beyond The Field Connect with the Alumni Association
Visiting Campus Spirit & Traditions Beyond The Field

Spirit & Traditions

Three students pose in front of the Stamp Student Union in black, white and red Maryland gear.

Spirit Week

Celebrate Homecoming and show your Maryland pride in your best gold, black, white and red gear.

Current students can follow @UMDHomecoming and @umdsalc on social media to find out where to score swag, learn about Maryland traditions and complete some UMD Bucket List items. Stop by the Daily Spirit Stations at a different location each day throughout Homecoming Week to win—if you’re wearing the color of the day.

Wear UMD Colors

The winners of the 2024 Spirit of Maryland Award accept the honor during halftime.

Spirit of Maryland Award

The Spirit of Maryland Award is presented annually during halftime of the Homecoming football game to two members of the senior class who, through their achievements, exemplify the spirit of the University of Maryland. Criteria include outstanding scholarship, leadership, campus involvement, community service and communication skills.

 From left, Thea LaFond-Gadson and Alyssa Thomas, who won gold medals in the summer 2024 Paris Olympics, will serve as Homecoming grand marshals.

2024 Grand Marshals

Red, White, Black and a Little Extra Gold

Triple jumper Thea LaFond-Gadson ’15, who won the first Olympic gold medal for her home country of Dominica in this summer’s Paris Olympics, and basketball player Alyssa Thomas ’14, who helped Team USA reach the top of the podium for the eighth straight time, will serve as Homecoming grand marshals.

Read More in Maryland Today
An office at Stamp decorated in a Homecoming theme.

Office Decorating Competition

Faculty and staff are invited to get in the Homecoming spirit by decking out your office suites. Grand prize for the annual Homecoming Office Decorating Competition is a UMD Dining Services snack pack and a trophy. One grand prize winner will be selected by a member of the Vice President for Student Affairs (VPSA) Council, Spirit of Maryland finalists and a group of student leaders.