Orange Blossom Classic returns to Miami Gardens, celebrating HBCU culture and tradition

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — The Orange Blossom Classic is returning to South Florida this Labor Day weekend, bringing football, music, entertainment and a celebration of historically Black colleges and universities to Miami Gardens.

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The Orange Blossom Classic was first played in 1933, providing Black college athletes with a stage during segregation. The event has since become a longstanding tradition centered on HBCU culture, community and education.

“This is the one event where I say it is entertainment, sports, culture, music, everything just all wrapped up into one,” said Kendra Bulluck-Major, executive director of the Orange Blossom Classic.

The weekend began with a career fair Tuesday.

The Classic’s annual scholarship fundraising luncheon is scheduled for Friday at Jungle Island, followed by two signature parties.

“Our sixth annual denim party is back. So, get your best denim outfits. Saturday night, we have our all-white party. Get your best white outfit,” Bulluck-Major said.

The weekend culminates Sunday at Hard Rock Stadium, where a fan fest will feature Miami artists including Trina and Trick Daddy, along with an appearance by actor Lorenz Tate.

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South Carolina State will face Florida A&M University at 3 p.m. Sunday.

The game will also feature a showcase of HBCU marching band culture at halftime, with performances from the Marching 100 and Marching 101.

Organizers are also introducing a new in-stadium day party following halftime.

For Bulluck-Major, the Classic’s return is about connecting generations of fans.

“I have people who remember the original classic from 1933 to ‘78 and they say, I’m so glad you brought it back because it meant so much to our community,” she said. “And then I have the new generation who may not be familiar with the original classic, but they’re still excited about it.”

Since the Orange Blossom Classic returned in 2021, organizers say it has generated more than $100 million in economic impact for South Florida and more than $500,000 in scholarships.

Bulluck-Major said buying a ticket is also a way to support the Classic’s mission.

“We think of it as just purchasing a ticket, but I look at each one of our ticket purchasers as donors,” she said. “You purchase a ticket to this event, tickets as low as $25, you are a donor. You are helping to support a cause that helps give back to our community.”

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Click here for more information on how to purchase tickets.