What is Homecoming? This is a question asked more and more all the time, especially by people who have moved to Kings County over the last few years. Kings County Homecoming is a weeklong event celebrating the pioneer spirit of those who first came to the San Joaquin Valley and settled in what is today called Kings County. Homecoming is held in Hanford every year and begins with the Round Up Breakfast always on the Monday following Mother's Day. As always, the breakfast will start at 6:30 a.m., with the program, the introductions of the Grand Marshal, Homecoming Queen, and Area Kings and Queens starting at 7:00 a.m. The Breakfast is open to the public. Awards are given to the best group, couple, and individual attending the breakfast in western wear. The concluding event for Homecoming Week is The Homecoming Parade through downtown Hanford and ends at the Hanford Civic Auditorium. Non-profit organizations are allowed to set-up foods booths on the auditorium grounds. The Homecoming Parade is the single largest event in Kings County, drawing 10,000 to 15,000 people each year.

Western wear is the accepted clothing style during Homecoming Week. For those of you who don't know, it was once part of the week’s festivities to “arrest” those not wearing western clothes or having a beard. You could of course avoid growing a beard or wearing western clothes by simply buying a Homecoming badge, also know as a Western Dress - Shavers permit for $1.00. We no longer “arrest” people, but we do still sell the badges. Each badge is numbered and a drawing for cash prizes is held following the parade. You must be present to win.

KINGS COUNTY HOMECOMING