Homecoming in Wilberforce is not one event. It is a week. Central State University's Homecoming 2026 runs October 7 to 11, with a step show, a parade, alumni events and, on Saturday, October 10, the Marauders at McPherson Stadium. If you are heading back to campus, you are going to be on your feet, in the crowd and in a lot of photos. Here is how to put together a maroon and gold fit that holds up from the parade route to the fourth quarter.
The Homecoming 2026 weekend at a glance
Central State's published homecoming schedule includes these highlights. Always check the official homecoming page for tickets, times and any changes before you go.
- Thursday, October 8: Visiting Alumni Day, Jammin' at Noon, and the Mister and Miss CSU Coronation
- Friday, October 9: the Athletic Hall of Fame Luncheon, the Homecoming Kickoff Celebration and the Step Show at Beacom-Lewis Gym
- Saturday, October 10: the Alumni and Friends Scholarship Breakfast, the Homecoming Parade at 11 a.m., the football game at McPherson Stadium from 1 to 4 p.m., and the Alumni Maroon and Gold Party that night
- Sunday, October 11: the Interfaith Homecoming Close-Out Worship
That is a long Saturday. Plan your outfit like you plan your day: something that works at breakfast, still feels right at the parade, survives the stands, and only needs one change before the party.
1. Start with a statement tee
Homecoming is the one weekend where nobody will tell you your shirt is too loud. Start with a graphic tee that says Central State the second someone sees it, then build everything else around it.
Our new HBCU Legendary Marauder T-Shirt was made for this weekend: a Marauder with a CS tricorn hat and cutlass under HBCU lettering, with "Legendary" in gold script. It is a nod to a program that won three national titles in the 1990s, including the 1995 championship that is still the last national football title won by an HBCU.
If you want something with more personality for the stands, the HBCU Where Them Fans At T-Shirt puts a lady Marauder in a gold-buttoned coat, fan in hand. And the Game Day Girl T-Shirt brings the full game day look: maroon and gold number 4 jersey, CS belt buckle, backwards cap and a football.
2. Keep the rest of the fit simple
Let the shirt do the talking. Dark denim, black jeans, cargos or joggers all work with a burgundy tee. If you want to lean into the colors, add gold through one piece, like sneakers, a chain, earrings or a hat, instead of trying to match everything.
A clean pair of sneakers you have already broken in matters more than anything else. Between the parade route, the walk to McPherson Stadium and three hours in the stands, you will be on your feet most of the day.
3. Plan for October in Ohio
October weather in southwest Ohio can swing from a cool morning to a warm afternoon and back again by the time the sun goes down. Wear the tee as your base and bring a layer you can take off and tie around your waist or put in a bag: a hoodie, a crewneck, a light jacket or a flannel. Check the forecast the night before, and if rain is possible, bring a hooded layer or a small poncho.
4. Top it off with a hat
A hat helps on a sunny afternoon and finishes the look. The Central State University Baseball Hat pairs with any of the tees and keeps the sun out of your eyes for the parade.
5. Coordinate with your crew
Homecoming photos last forever. If you are coming back with your line, your class, your family or your old roommates, pick a theme: everybody in a Marauders tee, everybody in a different Central State design, or one color for the whole group. All of our Central State tees are $19.99 in every size from S to 3XL, which makes outfitting a group easier.
Your homecoming checklist
- A Central State tee you will be proud to see in photos
- Broken-in sneakers for the parade route and the stands
- One layer for the morning and the evening
- A hat or sunglasses for the afternoon game
- Your game ticket and any event tickets
- A charged phone and a portable battery
- A change of top if you are going to the Maroon and Gold Party
Shop the full lineup on our Central State University apparel page. Take 10% off all Central State gear with code CSU10, and U.S. orders of $35 or more ship free.
Frequently asked questions
When is Central State homecoming 2026?
Central State University's Homecoming 2026 runs October 7 to 11 in Wilberforce, Ohio. The homecoming football game is on Saturday, October 10, at McPherson Stadium. Check the official homecoming page for tickets and any schedule changes.
What should I wear to Central State homecoming?
Start with a maroon or burgundy Central State graphic tee, keep the rest of the outfit simple, add one gold accent, and bring a layer for the cooler morning and evening. Comfortable sneakers are a must for the parade and the game.
What are Central State's colors?
Central State's colors are maroon and gold.
Is there a discount on Central State shirts?
Yes. Use code CSU10 at checkout for 10% off all Central State gear at Gear 2 Go. It can be combined with our email signup discount.
