Crowns, Parade, and Football: Homecoming Week in Williston North Dakota

This Friday will be a big night for the Williston Coyotes as they take on Bismarck Legacy in their annual homecoming football game. The week has already been buzzing with excitement, and the anticipation only builds as players, students, and the community come together to celebrate one of high school’s most cherished traditions.

From Alumni Gatherings to Gridiron Glory: The Origins of Homecoming

Homecoming in the United States has deep roots, dating back over a century. What began as a way to welcome alumni back to their alma maters has since grown into a nationwide celebration of school pride. One of the earliest—and most widely credited—homecoming events was held at the University of Missouri in 1911, where alumni were invited to return for a football game and parade. The tradition quickly spread, and by the 1920s, schools across the country were hosting their own versions filled with football, festivities, and school spirit.

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Williston Homecoming: A Celebration Beyond the Football Field

At Williston High School, homecoming is more than just a game under the Friday night lights. It’s a community-wide celebration. The week includes everything from tennis and soccer matches, to a parade and tailgating.

Read More: How North Dakota Ranks In Student Debt Burden Compared to Neighboring States

Jaxon Jeannotte and Abbey TeSoro Named Homecoming Royalty

Of course, no homecoming would be complete without the crowning of royalty—this year, Jaxon Jeannotte and Abbey TeSoro took home the crowns.

The schedule is packed with events leading up to Friday’s big matchup:

• Tue, Sept. 23 – Tennis vs. Minot North (4:00), Boys Soccer vs. Bismarck HS at Legends Field (JV 5:30, Varsity 7:30)

• Thu, Sept. 25 – Freshman Football vs. Legacy (5:00), Legends Banquet at Phil Jackson Field House (5:00)

• Fri, Sept. 26 – Parade (4:00, starting at CTE parking lot and ending at WHS), Football Tailgate (5:00–10:00 with food vendors & entertainment), Coyotes Football vs. Legacy (7:00 kickoff)

With community members lining the parade route, alumni reconnecting, and fans filling the stands, the Coyotes hope to turn the energy of homecoming into their first football victory of the season. If you can't be there for the game, listen for all the action with Mike Reuter on 660 KEYZ! GO COYOTES!