Parade

Hampton Pirates!

We extend a warm welcome to the entire community to join us in the excitement of “Pirates Island” by participating in our Homecoming parade!

Join us Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 9:00am!

Parade Entry Application

Parade Route

  • Start at Darling Stadium going towards Settlers Landing
  • Right on to Settlers Landing Road
  • Continue on Settlers Landing Road towards Air & Space Museum
  • Continue over the Bridge
  • Right at Starbucks
  • Right on to William R .Harvey Way, continue down and gate will be open on left between Phenix and Whipple Barn (End Parade)

Parade Route Distance: 1.75 miles

A map graphic showing the parade route starting at Darling Stadium and ending at Hampton University.

Parade Participant Information

Arrival Instructions

All Vehicles & Participants

  • Arrive between 6:45 AM – 7:45 AM
  • After 8:15 AM, you WILL NOT be allowed to participate
  • Vehicle clubs are limited to 10 vehicles

Buses (Participants)

  • Drop off at Darling Stadium (Victoria Blvd)
  • Park at Bemis Lawn on Hampton University’s campus

Floats (Campus Organizations Only)

  • Assemble on Bemis Lawn by 7:00 AM
  • Police escort to Darling Stadium at 7:30 AM
  • Float inspections:
    • Wednesday before the parade at 6:00 PM
    • Final Inspection: Friday before the parade at 6:00 PM
  • Non-campus floats must arrive at Darling Stadium by 7:30 AM
  • All floats must be decorated, regardless of judging preference

General Rules

  • HORSES: All horses participating in the parade must be equipped with a manure collection bag. This requirement must be followed throughout the parade route. City fines may apply for noncompliance.
  • No amplified music before 9:00 AM (City ordinance)
  • No stopping to perform along the route except at the Judges’ Stand (45 seconds maximum)
  • No reverse marching
  • No candy or favors may be thrown from floats or vehicles
  • Maintain 2 car lengths between groups and 1 car length within your group
  • Do not break formation before reaching the designated dispersal area
  • Vehicles must avoid overrunning marching units
  • Malfunctioning vehicles must be removed from the parade line
  • Bands must not overpower adjacent bands
  • Judges’ Stand: Virginia Air and Space Museum, Settlers Landing Road

Judging Criteria

Floats – 40 Points

  • Originality
  • Artistic Design
  • Aesthetic Design
  • Workmanship

Bands – 50 Points

  • Precision
  • Dress/Alignment
  • Execution/Drill
  • Cover (Line)
  • Music Quality

All Others – 30 Points

  • Originality
  • Dress
  • Overall Performance

Winners Announcement

Winners will be announced during halftime of the Hampton University Homecoming Football Game.

Thank
you!

We appreciate your cooperation in following all parade guidelines to ensure a safe, organized, and enjoyable Homecoming Parade for our participants, guests, and the Hampton community.

Thank you again for being part of the 2026 Hampton University Homecoming Parade. We look forward to celebrating with you on Saturday, October 24!

Go Pirates!
She’s Coming Home, Hampton!