Navigating the Homecoming weekend is never easy. With all the action going on, it’s hard to figure out which events to go to and when and where these events take place. Through Friday Night Lights, a Big Ten matchup at The Big House, and Saturday’s Dance, this list is full of fun activities to do with friends on such a special weekend – even if you did not make advance plans.
Friday Events:
1:50 PM: Skyline’s Homecoming pep rally
The pep rally is headlined by the PowderTuff matchup between the Seniors (‘26) and Juniors (‘27), with the class of 2026 falling last year to the class of 2025; they aim to avoid going 0-2. Outside of PowderTuff, other games like tug of war and rock, paper, scissors for the underclassmen will be played, fall sports teams will be introduced, and PomPon will perform.
5:30 PM: Skyline’s Homecoming parade
Skyline Athletic teams as well as an assortment of Skyline clubs and organizations will be participating in the parade, both on foot and on other modes of transportation. The 2025 Homecoming court will also be at the tail end of the floats, representing each of their classes. Be there to support the Skyline community and get free candy being passed out by the participants. Stick around after the parade, as food trucks will be available to all outside of the stadium.
7 PM: Skyline vs. Pioneer Homecoming football game
Tensions are high in Ann Arbor with a big rival game on the clock at such a special time of year. With Skyline hoping to get redemption from their nail-biting loss to Pioneer last year, and with the game falling on such a high-spirited day for the Eagles, students are in for a good game. Some key reminders for the homecoming game include: the blackout theme for the student section, no bags or outside food & drink, students should bring their student IDs for free entry. This year, the administration advises you to make sure to get there early, as they may close the gates if capacity is reached. At halftime, the winners of grade 9-11’s Homecoming court will be welcomed onto the field. The winners of the Class of ‘26 Royal Homecoming court will be announced at halftime.
Saturday Events:
12 PM: Michigan vs. Wisconsin football game
2-2 Wisconsin goes on the road to face off against 3-1 (20) Michigan at The Big House for a Big Noon Kickoff. True Freshman Quarterback Bryce Underwood and the Wolverines are set to improve to 2-0 on the season in Big Ten play. Michigan comes in as a 17.5-point favorite after a big road win against Nebraska. Tickets are still available, although relatively expensive, coming in at about $100-$150 for an average seat. (Seatgeek). But sometimes, last-minute tickets are cheaper than you might expect.
Evening: Dinner before Homecoming
Ann Arbor has many amazing choices for spots to eat at before the big dance. Whether you’re going with a date or a group of friends, both big and small, there are many options available to fit everyone’s needs. Here are three spots to look into varying in price. Big groups will need a reservation. Call ahead to check.
8 PM: Skyline Homecoming
Skyline’s 2025 Great Gatsby-themed homecoming is right around the corner and the school is in for a night of fun. Friday is the last time tickets are available cash and check only for $30. The prices increase to $40 at the door, cash or check only. In order to get in, students must bring their ticket along with a valid ID or else entry will be denied. Pre-approved guests must arrive with their hosts. At the dance, there will be photo opportunities, food and drink like cookies and lemonade, and teacher Nick Bertsos’ DJ skills on full display. Come and join fellow students and friends for a night to remember at this year’s Homecoming dance.
11 PM: Post-dance food
After a long night of dancing, here are some late night food options that will stay bustling in the afterhours. To begin, a classic to Ann Arbor highschooler nightlife is New York Pizza Depot (NYPD). NYPD has pizza by the slice for cheap, cake slices, and shakes. The food options alongside its environment and booth seating makes it the perfect spot to talk with your friends while refueling. Next, a newcomer into the game is Raising Cane’s. Although it isn’t new to America or even Michigan, its recent opening downtown has made a lot of noise throughout the community. Cane’s delicious box combos along with it being open until 2 AM on weekends gives NYPD some tough competition for the best night downtown spot.
Sunday Events:
Relax, refresh, and recharge!
