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Howard University Homecoming (HUHC) is THE ultimate HBCU homecoming. It is an experience in and of itself. Am I saying this because I am an alumni of Howard? Yes! But I’m also saying because it is true…so here is how to survive Howard University Homecoming.
1. Gear Up
Howard Homecoming is a fashion show. But what makes it so special is the amount of Howard paraphernalia you will see. It’s a beautiful sight to see how everyone styles their HU gear. So, make sure you have some type of Howard ‘nalia to represent for homecoming.
2. Call Up Your Crew
Check in with your friends to see who all is going to be there. Coordinate what days people are available for events and activate the group chat, so that everyone is informed of what is going on.
If you were involved with campus organizations, make sure to inform everyone that you are coming into town, and try to set a time to meet up to take a pictures and share in the love and hugs.
3. Book A Hotel
As soon as the dates for homecoming drop, book a room. Make sure it is a room that you can cancel, in case a better rate becomes available. Be sure to book your room close to city-center, so that you are able to go back and forth to activities as quickly as possible, and to avoid unnecessary traffic.
Once hotels and other people get notice of the Howard Homecoming dates, prices will rise and rooms become limited. So book early to get the best rate.
4. Know Where to Go
Every homecoming party is not for everybody. So, make sure you are going to the party that is age-appropriate. Nothing is worse than entering a party, and not knowing one soul or song. So make sure to reach out to old classmates to see where they are heading for homecoming. Also follow your favorite party promoters and Howard DJs on social media to see what events they are promoting.
5. Buy Your Tickets
If you already know where you are going for the weekend, go ahead and book your ticket. Prices tend to rise as you get closer to date. There is no need to wait and purchase a ticket if everyone in your crew has confirmed the place to party.
If you are feeling fancy, book a table for an event, but just make sure to gather your crew ahead of time to ensure everyone is aware of the cost. Also note, that the prices listed are usually different from the final (higher) price you will pay. This is due to add-ons, tips and anything else that (randomly) pops up on the tab during the night. So cushion your homecoming budget.
6. Book Sunday Brunch Reservations
One of my favorite parts of Howard Homecoming is Sunday brunch and day parties. Many of the popular restaurants book up fast, so link with your crew and figure out where you want to eat and party on Sunday. Then book your reservations.
7. Pack Essentials
Make sure to bring extra water and snacks. Don’t forget to bring back-up items for your friends, because nine times out of ten, someone will forget something.
A special shout out to those friends who always have snack bars, extra gum, wipes, tylenol and Liquid IV on deck.
8. Plan Your Transportation
Make sure you book your flights and update your ride share apps such as Lyft. Nothing is worse than scrambling at the last minute to make sure your credit card info is updated in the app.
9. Drink Some Water
If you know me, this is my motto, but it is so true. Drink plenty of water ALL weekend. Whether you are drinking cocktails or not, water is essential because you will be on the go.
10. Bring a Back Up Battery
If you are out in the streets all day and taking pictures, your battery is likely to drain. So make sure you bring a back up just in case.
11. Rest In-Between Partying
Plan time slots of down time. I know you want to do it all, but try to sleep in late at least one of the days or have an early night at least one of days to get a bit of rest. There is no need to be partying from 9AM til 3AM everyday for an entire weekend. Calm down!…especially if you are over 40 (just speaking from personal experience).
12. Capture the Moments
Don’t forget to snap photos or videos of yourself and your friends. It always puts a smile on my face to look back and reflect on the great time that was had. Videos are also cool for sharing your Howard Homecoming experience on social media.
13. Take the Next Day Off
After all of your homecoming festivities are done, be sure to take the following day off. Nothing is worse than trying to work after a long weekend of partying. Use that day to drink water, reflect and look at pictures of you and your friends celebrating Howard Homecoming.
Bonus Tip
If your husband, wife or significant other didn’t attend Howard, just leave them home for the weekend. It’s a Howard Thing. If you know, YOU KNOW!
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