Homecoming is a time when the University comes together to celebrate unique UA traditions. From crowning the homecoming queen, to painting the town red, to dance and step competitions, students all support each other for a fun week at the Capstone.

This year’s homecoming hasn’t been any different; there have been many activities, which started Sunday with the Roll Tide Run and will continue through Friday with the traditional homecoming pep rally and NPHC homecoming step show.

The NPHC homecoming step show, which has been a homecoming tradition for 30 years, will be held Friday, Oct. 7 at 8 p.m. in Foster Auditorium.

The step show is one of the only times the members of NPHC come together for a single event all year. The teams began working on their routines early in the fall semester.

“What makes it such a special show is that it’s all the African-American greek organizations coming together,” said NPHC president Xavier Burgin.

Last year was the first year the step show was held in Foster, and they sold 2,600 tickets for the show. Each year, they hope to attract more audience members to the event.

Defending champions Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority and Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity will compete with the other NPHC member sororities and fraternities for the title.

In sticking to the theme of homecoming, “The Traditions Roll On,” the step show will incorporate elaborate themes with vibrant music into the show.

This year’s host will be the comedian Jermaine “Funny Maine” Johnson, and the shows will feature performers such as UA’s own Rip-Tide Dance Team, Tuscaloosa’s O&J Dance Team and the winner of this year’s Homecoming Talent Show.

“It’s one of the most entertaining shows to see across the Alabama campus in general,” Burgin said. “It’s one of those aspects of culture you don’t get to see on a regular basis.”

Tickets for the NPCH homecoming step show are $15 in advance for students and $20 for general admission. For advanced tickets, visit www.sgatix.com.