Students from various organizations have been busy creating floats for this year’s homecoming parade. The parade is rooted deep in TCU’s history, but it hasn’t been around since 2017.
The inspiration, driven by the Student Government Association, was to fundamentally revamp Homecoming Week. Student Body President, Reagan Stephens, said the goal was to revive tradition, encourage broader student involvement and create a more visible and inclusive celebration for students, alumni and Fort Worth residents.
“In line with TCU’s strategic plan, we wanted to incorporate the Fort Worth community and bring our school spirit back to campus like we’ve never seen before,” Stephens said.
Nearly 50 student organizations participated voluntarily; some even paired up for collaborative float construction. Groups from academic clubs to service organizations have been working diligently for the past three weeks, adhering to the parade’s theme, “Decades of Winning.”
Floats are built using traditional materials like chicken wire, streamers and paint. Most notable are the “pomps,” which are small balls made of crumpled tissue paper squares. Organizations must adhere to strict size guidelines, including a maximum height of 13 feet and a maximum length of 30 feet. To support this massive effort, the SGA provides funding up to $700 in reimbursement.
“I’m glad floats are part of the parade again, and I’m excited to see all the different designs,” Mia Sarale, a junior strategic communication major, said. “I love TCU for the school’s spirit, and this is a perfect example of that.”
The floats serve as the centerpiece of the parade, judged by a committee of TCU Faculty and Staff on their design and interpretation of the theme.
“The showcase allows students to proudly exhibit their organizations and spirit, making a tangible contribution to the overall energy of homecoming week,” Stephens said.
The floats are a celebration of TCU’s spirit and community, allowing students to channel creativity and contribute to the campus culture.
