SC State advises motorists of road closures, traffic changes for Saturday's Homecoming parade

Gate 3 closes at 8 a.m.; drivers encouraged to use Russell Street to access campus

ORANGEBURG, S.C. — South Carolina State University is advising motorists, parade spectators and Homecoming visitors to prepare for traffic congestion and temporary road closures associated with the Homecoming 2026 parade Saturday, Oct. 24.

The parade begins at 8:30 a.m., traveling from downtown Orangeburg through campus on Geathers Street.

Road closures and traffic restrictions

• From 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., motorists approaching campus from U.S. Highway 601 (Magnolia Street) will experience parade-related congestion and road closures.
• Drivers are encouraged to avoid the area during this period and use alternate routes when possible.
• Visitors arriving during these restrictions should use Russell Street to reach designated parking areas and campus entrances.
• Motorists should allow extra travel time, observe posted traffic controls and follow instructions from law enforcement officers directing traffic. 

Parade spectators and campus entry

•  A valid Homecoming football game ticket is required for visitors entering campus Saturday, including those attending the parade, tailgating or riding as passengers in vehicles.
• Current SC State students may enter campus with valid university IDs and are exempt from the game ticket requirement.
• Tickets may be purchased at scsuathletics.com or on game day at Gate 2 (Russell and Pinckney streets).

Campus parking and access

• Visitors entering campus in vehicles must also have appropriate parking passes.
• All on-campus parking for Saturday is sold out.
• Pre-paid general parking passholders may enter campus through Gate 2 (Russell and Pinckney streets) or Gate 1A (Russell and Baldwin streets) until campus lots are full.
• Additional SC State general parking will be available across Russell Street from Gate 2 for $50 per vehicle, on a first-come, first-served basis.
• All buses must park in the Russell Street lot across from Gate 2.
• Visitors seeking general parking should approach via Russell Street and follow directions from parking personnel.

State Club parade access

• State Club tailgaters who plan to exit the Game Zone to watch the parade must obtain authorized wristbands to leave and re-enter the Game Zone.

Planning for the football game

• The Homecoming football game kicks off at 1:30 p.m. at Oliver C. Dawson Stadium.
• Visitors attending the game should arrive at least two hours before kickoff to allow time for traffic, parking, security screening and stadium entry.
• SC State Public Safety and assisting law enforcement agencies will direct traffic and help manage pedestrian and vehicle movement throughout the celebration.

The university appreciates the patience and cooperation of motorists, parade spectators and the surrounding Orangeburg community as thousands gather for Homecoming.