CEDAR FALLS, Iowa (KWWL) — The University of Northern Iowa and Cedar Falls Tourism Bureau expect thousands of visitors ahead of the 2024 Homecoming season. 

The history of UNI’s Homecoming dates back to traditions and practices from the 1920’s, and over the years the celebration continues to grown in size – attracting thousands to the Cedar Valley.

UNI Director of Relations Pete Moris said in an interview with KWWL, “Anytime we have a major event at UNI, it’s good for us and it’s good for the community. A lot of folks are here for the entire weekend. They are going to enjoy all our bars and restaurants, and shops here in Waterloo and Cedar Falls.”

University officials say that Homecoming festivities bring a lot of business to downtown Cedar Falls. 

The 2024 UNI Homecoming will feature a variety of events each day leading up to an exciting matchup against Missouri State.

Among the notable events are musical performances by the Pork Tornadoes and a large Homecoming parade on Saturday.

UNI swimmer and three-time gold medalist Olivia Chambers will be the parade Grand Marshal. In addition, UNI marching band’s Gabi Riessen and her service dog Winne will also be in attendance.

The Cedar Falls Tourism Bureau says that they expect positive economic impacts from the weekend’s events.

Jennifer Pickar with Cedar Falls Tourism said, “It’s adding hundreds of thousands of dollars into our local economy, so we love having all of those visitors here in Cedar Falls.”

While the community is looking forward to welcoming many familiar faces back into the community, local and university officials say that it’s important to be safe, as safety officials will be working together to deter disorderly conduct.

For this year’s homecoming schedule, click here.