Homecoming FAQ
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What are homecoming mums?
Homecoming Mums (typically for girls), Homecoming Garters (typically for boys) and Homecoming Boutonnières/Mini Mums/Wristlets (typical for dance/drill team, friends, teachers, staff, family) are a Southern Texas Tradition (it's now expanded out to other states such as Oklahoma, New Mexico, Louisiana, Alabama) as a high school tradition showing school pride during homecoming game weekend. It originally started as a fresh chrysanthemum with ribbons. Today, they display a variety of trinkets and items representing the students' interests, hobbies, organizations and any items they'd like to personalize their mum/garter.
Who gets a mum/garter?
Middle School and High School Students, Teachers, Staff, Alumni and parents are all welcome to wear a mum or garter! You can buy one yourself and customize it.
Sometimes, mums/garters or small versions of boutonnières/mini mums/wristlets are bought among dance/drill team members, friends, teachers, staff or by a parent or relative. These small options are great gifts for alumni, teachers, staff and families!
Frequently, mums and garters are purchased by Homecoming dates (for example, the girl would order a garter for her date and he would order a mum for her), and they do an "exchange" before homecoming weekend.
Note that you don't need to have a "date" to Homecoming game or dance to wear a mum or garter! Everyone is encouraged to join in the Homecoming spirit!
What kind of mum/garter should I get?
Mums and garters are available in a variety of sizes and options. Most school tradition is that Freshmen, Sophmores and Juniors wear the school colors and at some schools the Seniors wear specific colors such as gold/white or silver/white mums/garters to signify seniority.
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When do I wear it?
Mums and garters are worn to school all day on the Friday of homecoming weekend or at the dance. They are also worn at the Homecoming football game. Check your school's rules.
How do I wear it?
Mums are worn with a ribbon/strap that goes around your neck or can be pinned depending on the weight. Sometimes they are pinned on denim or a jacket. Mini-mums are pinned to your clothes. Garters are worn on the arm.
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