DeKALB– NIU is kicking off its 118th Homecoming, the oldest in Illinois, with a week of fun for staff, students and the community. For several years, the Homecoming Parade was cancelled due to a lack of student interest. We want to make sure there are things for people to do when they come back for Homecoming,” Streb said. New traditions continue to be added, such as the Smore’s N’More event that is open to the DeKalb community. “Local businesses have also become very engaged in Homecoming,” Streb said.