The first Homecoming at the University of Illinois was held in 1910. The UI has long claimed to be the originator of the collegiate Homecoming. Long before that year, though, other schools were holding alumni gatherings in the form of an annual alumni football game. Archival sources credit two men for the founding of Homecoming at the University of Illinois: seniors Clarence Foss Williams, Class of 1910, and W. Elmer Ekblaw, Classes of 1910 and 1912. According to Williams' recollection in 1930, the Homecoming idea came to them early in 1910 while he and Ekblaw were sitting on the old YMCA steps discussing a way to contribute to their Alma Mater. They agreed that a football game should be the centerpiece of the celebration.

The Homecoming petition was formally presented to the Council of Administration in April 1910. The petition contained several resolutions, one of which spelled out the primary rationale for a Homecoming:

Whereas, it is the belief of your petitioner that the setting aside of such a day as a holiday would afford alumni and students the opportunity to come into closer touch with each other, and that a true conception of the real greatness of the University that would result would create a more active and sincere loyalty to the University.

It was proposed that the first Homecoming be held on Oct. 15, 1910, when the Illini were scheduled to meet their great rival, the University of Chicago Maroons. Homecoming wasn't intended to be only about football. Important annual student traditions like the freshman-sophomore pushball game, fraternity initiations, class reunions and the Hobo Band were also slated for Homecoming Weekend.

After the inaugural event drew more than 10,000 people, and Illinois had its first win in seven years against the Maroons, the Daily Illini declared Homecoming an unqualified success and touted the University as the originator of the event.

Illinois' enthusiasm for Homecoming has not dimmed since. Innovations that have sprung up over the years include the parade, pep rally, Homecoming Court, tent parties and many other additional campus activities. Typically held in October, Homecoming at UI marked its 100th anniversary in 2010.