The 2026 Bayou Classic
The Battle of the HBCUs is back as the 53rd annual Bayou Classic is set for Saturday, November 28 at Caesars Superdome. The Southern University Jaguars and the Grambling State University Tigers will face-off at 1 p.m.
As one of the most anticipated events in college football, the Jaguars and Tigers have been facing off since 1932. Although, it wasn't until 1974 when it became a celebrated tradition and rivalry, with the first Bayou Classic game taking place at Yulman Stadium at Tulane University.
About the Bayou Classic
Over the next several decades, the Bayou Classic has grown to become a premier rivalry within HBCU football. From 1991 to 2014, the showdown was broadcasted nationally on NBC, giving it a large-scale platform unlike any other HBCU sporting event. To this day, the Bayou Classic is the only NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision game to be televised annually on TV.
The decision to have the game at Caesars Superdome each year is not random. In the early 1970s, while the Dome was under construction, the Bayou Classic was a part of the "Big Three" events that took place here, along with New Orleans Saints football and the Sugar Bowl.
The game is not the only sacred tradition. The Battle of the Bands, featuring Grambling's World-Famed Tiger Marching Band and Southern's Human Jukebox, takes center stage the night before gameday.
The Bayou Classic is more than a football game—it's a cultural celebration rooted in family, tradition, community pride, and spirited rivalry. It continues a legacy that unites generations of fans, showcasing the very best of HBCU culture and excellence to a national audience.
About This Year's Gameday
As a pre-game rally, the Fan Festival will occur the morning of the game from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Champions Square. 2 Chainz will headline the free, family-friendly event. Wild Wayne will host as other artists and performers will be in attendance.
Kick-off is set for 1 p.m. as doors open at 11:30 a.m. The Jaguars fans will be on the west side of the stadium near sections 129-156, and Tigers fans will be on the east side near sections 101-128. Tickets range from $32 to $184+ and can be purchased through Ticketmaster. A clear bag policy is in effect at the Superdome and at Champions Square.
Battle of the Bands & Greek Show
The Battle of the Bands & Greek Show, a star-studded night of music, culture, and unity, will take place Friday, November 27 at 6 p.m., with doors open at 5 p.m. The Human Jukebox and the World-Famed Tiger Marching Band will face off in a heated match as their respective dance teams will accompany them on the field. Various D9 sororities and fraternities will stroll the night away, as well.
Fans must enter through Gate C of the Superdome as Southern will be placed at the south end zone and Grambling will be placed at the north end zone. A clear bag policy will be in effect for the duration of the event. Tickets range from $38 to $172 and can be bought through Ticketmaster.
Other events will take place throughout the Thanksgiving weekend, such as the Thanksgiving Parade, Beats Before Battle, Special Olympics Unified Rivalry Flag Football Game, and much more.
To purchase tickets and for more information, visit mybayouclassic.com.
