The history of Homecoming at The Florida State University is rich in tradition and pride. The first Homecoming was held on December 3-4, 1948, which consisted of events scheduled on a Friday and Saturday. It started off very simple, with no theme or Grand Marshall. Clara Mofitt Howell McKay was Florida State’s first Homecoming Queen. Events included an eloquent banquet and breakfast in the East Campus Dining Hall and a barbeque in the West Campus Student Union. Homecoming Live (Student Pep Rally) was held on Centennial Field and was free of charge to all students. The Parade was held on Saturday morning, followed by the biggest game of the year that afternoon. The week concluded with the Homecoming dance.

Throughout the late 90's and early 21st century the week of Homecoming was expanded. The current week-of schedule includes the events: Spirit Night, Creative Event, Festival, Odds and Evens, the Homecoming Parade, Homecoming Live, the Garnet and Gold Tailgate, and more! Homecoming Live, held in the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center, fills with over 8,000 students, faculty, and alumni who come to watch student performers, the crowning of Homecoming Chief and Princess, and a celebrity music artist or comedian. Previous headliners include: Social House, Grouplove, Lil Yachty, Rae Sremmurd, Chance the Rapper, Zac Brown Band, Florida Georgia Line, Big Sean, Pete Davidson, Nick Kroll, Hannibal Buress, Amy Schumer, Kenan Thompson, Craig Ferguson, Kathy Griffin, Jimmy Fallon, Nick Offerman, and John Oliver, among others. Homecoming Live, the largest pep rally at Florida State, also includes entertainment from student organizations such as the FSU Flying High Circus, FSU Cheerleaders, Golden Girls, the Marching Chiefs, acapella groups, and more. Homecoming week concludes annually with the most popular event of the week, the FSU football game!