Mav Up, Arlington! UTA Homecoming brings a Week of Maverick Pride

Every November, a familiar shade of blue and orange takes over Arlington. Students show off their Maverick pride, alumni return to campus, and the community comes together to celebrate the University of Texas at Arlington. But Homecoming is about more than what happens on campus. It’s a chance to celebrate the traditions, people and places that make Arlington feel like home.  

For Downtown Arlington, that connection runs deep. Generations of UTA students have made their way downtown to celebrate, creating traditions that have evolved alongside the university and the city. Today, the neighborhood continues to be a gathering place for Mavericks, whether they’re grabbing a bite with friends, exploring local businesses or keeping the school spirit going long after the festivities end.  

This year, UTA’s Homecoming celebrations return Nov. 9-14, 2026, with a lineup of campus events that brings the Maverick community together for a week of school pride.  

A tradition generations in the making  

Homecoming has long been a time for UTA students to reconnect with their university and the Arlington community. In the university’s earlier days, when it was known as Arlington State College, students gathered around downtown’s historic Mineral Well to celebrate.   

In recent years, Downtown Arlington has found new ways to celebrate its relationship with UTA, including Decorate Downtown, an initiative that invites students to bring Maverick pride to local storefronts with colorful window art and displays. The result is a district that reflects the excitement of Homecoming while highlighting the close connection between the university and the businesses around it.  

As the festivities approach, keep an eye out for that signature blue and orange around downtown. You might discover a new local spot while taking in the Homecoming spirit.  

A week of Maverick memories  

Whether you’re a student looking forward to a week of campus traditions, an alum returning to familiar stomping grounds or an Arlington resident ready to join the fun, this year’s Homecoming lineup offers plenty of ways to celebrate. 

The week begins Monday, Nov. 9, with activities including the Homecoming Golf Tournament and the reveal of UTA’s 2026 Spirit Horse. On Tuesday, students can swap items at MavSwap before gathering for Dye the Fountain, a new colorful campus tradition. Wednesday brings a little friendly competition with the Homecoming Chili Cook-Off.  

By Thursday, the excitement moves to the stage. Homecoming: The Bash! brings Fetty Wap, Monaleo and Durand Bernarr to Texas Hall for an evening of live music. Doors open at 7 p.m., with the concert beginning at 8 p.m. UTA students and faculty and staff can purchase tickets through the university.  

The celebrations continue Friday, Nov. 13, with the National Pan-Hellenic Council Homecoming Step Show and the Distinguished Alumni Awards, honoring the people and organizations that help shape the Maverick community.  

Then comes Saturday, Nov. 14, bringing a full day of Homecoming excitement, Maverick pride, and community celebrations. The day kicks off with the Homecoming 5K, followed by the Homecoming Tailgate, where Mavericks can come together and celebrate before heading to Homecoming Fanfest for even more festivities. But the excitement doesn't stop there. November 14 also brings a tripleheader gameday, giving fans three opportunities to cheer on the Mavericks. Volleyball takes the court first at 11:30 a.m., followed by Women's Basketball at 3 p.m. and Men's Basketball at 6 p.m. Adding to the evening's excitement, Downtown Arlington will be recognized during the Men's Basketball game as the game sponsor! 

Event dates, times and details may change. Check UTA’s official Homecoming events page and Homecoming calendar for the latest information.  

Keep the Maverick spirit going in Downtown Arlington  

Homecoming may bring everyone together on campus, but the celebration doesn’t have to stop there.  

Just north of UTA, Downtown Arlington offers plenty of ways to make a day of it. Meet friends for coffee, grab lunch before an event, or settle in for dinner after a full day of festivities. With locally owned restaurants, coffee shops, bars and gathering spots throughout the area, downtown is an easy place to extend the celebration and explore somewhere new.  

Come celebrate with us  

UTA Homecoming has always been about more than school colors. It’s about the connections between students, alumni, local businesses and the Arlington community.  

This November, we invite Mavericks past and present, along with neighbors from across Arlington, to join the festivities, show off that blue and orange and make a few new memories along the way.  

Explore the Homecoming lineup, plan a stop in Downtown Arlington and help us celebrate the community we share. Mav Up, Arlington!