Know Before You Go

Where to Park

Parking permits are required when parking on campus. Parking is available in the following lots: Mesa, 14A, Student Center, 5 and 16. Get your parking in advance through UC Irvine’s ParkbyPlate.

Event Location & Directions

Attendees can enter the Homecoming Block Party street festival via entrances on the corner of Mesa Road & West Peltason and on the North/West side of the Bren Events near Anteater Ballpark. See a map of where this event is on campus. Also, take a look at the interactive campus map.

Where to Stay

If you’re coming to Homecoming from out of town, here is a list of local hotels with UC Irvine rates.

Attire Recommendations

If you’re attending the basketball game, make sure to wear your blue and gold to show your pride! At all other events, the attire is casual and comfortable, unless otherwise noted.

Clear Bag Policy

For the safety of all attendees, UC Irvine’s Clear Bag Policy will be enforced during the basketball game. Only clear bags with a maximum size of 12″x12″x6″ (the size of a gallon freezer bag) will be permitted in the Bren Events Center. Bags, backpacks, large purses, etc. are no longer permitted with the exception of bags carried for medical reasons or manufactured diaper bags that accompany infants or young children.

Substance Use Policy

UC Irvine is a smoke- and tobacco-free campus. Any type of drug use, including marijuana, is illegal on campus. Consuming alcohol outside of permitted venues is also illegal.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Homecoming?

UC Irvine’s Homecoming Block Party at the Bren is Feb. 27 – March 1, 2026.

Where can I view my registered events?

Check your registration confirmation email to view your event details. You can also use the “Find My Order” feature to receive another confirmation email.

I'm a student. Can I participate in Homecoming?

Yes! Current UC Irvine students with student ID cards can attend the homecoming festival for free. Walk-ups are welcome.

How much is a children's Homecoming ticket?

For Homecoming Block Party, children 12 and under are free. Children 13 and older need to register for an adult ticket.

For the basketball game, all fans 6 and up must have a ticket. Children 5 and under may lap sit.

Are dogs allowed?

We know we love our pets, but dogs are not permitted on campus (except for service dogs).

How do I get my free UC Irvine Alumni hat?

The first 1,000 alumni and 500 students to check in at the festival registration tent on February 28 between 3 and 6 p.m. will receive a UC Irvine Alumni hat.

Is there a theme for Homecoming this year?

This year, we’re forgoing a theme to focus on celebrating UC Irvine traditions past, present and future.

I'm an alum. How can I get involved?

Once an Anteater, always an Anteater! Homecoming is a great time of year to connect with your alma mater! Learn more about other alumni events!

Have more questions? If you can’t find the answer to your question above, write to alumni@uci.edu.

Signature Events

More Homecoming Events

Friday, Feb. 27, 2026

Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026

Merage Disney Day

Time TBD | Sunday, Feb. 29, 2026

Location TBD

TBD Description

UC Irvine Spirit Night with the Anaheim Ducks