Celebrate community, culture and connection at Homecoming House Party — an evening that honors the spirit of the Black collegiate experience and Divine 9 pride in the city that built house music. Sport your college gear from any institution: Homecoming House celebrates YOUR unique college experience!
Reunite with your college friends and meet alum from across the country in this one-of-a-kind experience in Chicago. Sip, stroll and dance to live DJs spinning house vibes. Witness incredible aquatic animals, reminisce on your college days and make new memories to last a lifetime — this is a night you won’t want to miss!
We are in the process of transforming our building as part of Shedd's Centennial Commitment. You may see construction fences, walls and trailers that indicate these changes are in progress. Additionally, the North Terrace will be unavailable as we build new exhibits that will enhance your future visits and make events even more spectacular! We appreciate your patience and look forward to sharing these incredible updates with you!
The event includes all exhibits, touch experiences and entertainment. Some exhibits may close early due to animal care needs, and lights in certain habitats will be dimmed to create a natural nighttime environment for the animals. Wild Reef closes at 9 p.m. Oceanarium and Amazon Rising close at 10 p.m. Please refer to event signage for more information.
Please note, this year’s event festivities are fully indoors - the North Terrace will be unavailable as we build new exhibits that will enhance your future visits and make events even more spectacular!
DJ Vince Adams is synonymous with top-quality events not only in Chicago, but across the U.S. For more than 25 years, Vince has built a reputation as one of the most versatile DJs in the country for his ability to not only play a variety of music, but to appeal to a wide base of party-goers and event attendees. Vince is a proud graduate of Florida A&M University and a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity
Sundance is a legendary figure in the music world, celebrated for her work as both a DJ and producer. A Chicago native who was raised in Inglewood, California, she made her mark on the music scene when she returned to her hometown in 1989 to co-create the genre-defining hit "Git On Up" with Fast Eddie. After a 26-year career as an iHeartRadio personality, Sundance became a globally recognized DJ in the house music community. She eventually shifted her focus to music production, backing her artistry with a degree in Sound Audio Engineering. Her highly anticipated debut album, “Pink Noise, Ugly Sunday,” is on the way, with the first single, "120 Me," already creating a buzz.
Last entry for the event is at 9 p.m., one hour before the event concludes.
Specialty Cocktails Midnight Frequency (Mezcal, Pineapple, Stregga) Mint Condition (Rum, Fresh Lime Juice, Mint)
Schedule for September 11, 2026
6 – 9:45 p.m. DJ Vince Adams (Grand Hall Stage)
6 – 9:45 p.m. Sundance (Bubble Net Stage)
6:30 p.m. Shark Chat (Wild Reef)
7 p.m. Wonder of Water Demo (Amazon Rising)
7:30 p.m. Shark Chat (Wild Reef)
8 p.m. Kelp Forest Chat (Oceans Gallery)
9 p.m. Last Entry to Wild Reef
9:30 p.m. Last Call
Accessibility
We believe there should be no boundaries to your Shedd Aquarium experience. If you have an accommodation request related to a disability, please contact us at [email protected]
