Charlotte Becomes the Epicenter of HBCU Culture: The 2026 BIG HBCU Southern Classic Returns

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Rezul -- CHARLOTTE, NC — The BIG HBCU Southern Classic Battle of the Bands returns to Charlotte on Saturday, January 24, 2026, bringing together nine premier Historically Black College and University marching bands for a high-energy showcase of sound, precision, and pageantry. Expected to draw 15,000+ fans at Bojangles Coliseum (2700 E. Independence Blvd.), anchoring a full weekend of culture, entertainment, and celebration.

Confirmed participants include North Carolina A&T State University, Winston-Salem State University, Mississippi Valley State University, Talladega College, North Carolina Central University, Alcorn State University, Benedict College, Johnson C. Smith University, Hampton University, and South Carolina State University (Bongo Brothers – Drumline only). Each band will compete for national recognition and bragging rights among the best in HBCU culture.

A Full Weekend of HBCU Culture & Celebrity Appearances

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The BIG HBCU Southern Classic extends beyond the arena with a curated weekend of music, nightlife, and HBCU excellence across Charlotte.

The weekend kicks off Friday, January 23^rd, with the Celebrity Takeover Kickoff Party at Harold's Ice Bar, featuring DJ Envy (The Breakfast Club) vs. Traci Steele (Love & Hip Hop Atlanta). Doors open at 9:00 PM, with additional sets by DJ Incognito (Power 98) and DJ Prep Luva. VIP tables and bottle service will be available.

Also on Friday, Bowl & Stroll, the official Battle of the Bands weekend kickoff, runs from 8:00 PM - 2:00 AM at Spare Time Entertainment in Pineville, NC. The interactive event blends bowling, strolling, music, and competition, highlighted by a $1,000 Stroll Competition grand prize (limited to Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma). Winners receive VIP access and on-stage recognition during Saturday's main event.

Additional weekend appearances include Loren Lorosa (The Breakfast Club), CDK (First-Ever #1 HBCU Host), No Limit Larry (The Morning Madhouse), and special guest DJs and hosts.

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On Saturday, the BIG HBCU FANFEST begins at 12:00 PM, featuring food trucks, vendors, live performances, giveaways, and youth showcases. Coliseum doors open at 3:00 PM, with showtime at 5:00 PM.

"This is more than a competition—it's a cultural homecoming," said Alvin Davis, President and Founder of BIG HBCU.

Tickets are on sale now and moving fast.
Official tickets & weekend details: www.ticketmaster.com

Sponsorship inquiries: admin@bighbcu.com
Vendor applications: https://form.jotform.com/BIG_HBCU/vendor
Press credentials: https://form.jotform.com/BIG_HBCU/media
Group sales (10+): https://form.jotform.com/BIG_HBCU/group

About BIG HBCU:
BIG HBCU is a national cultural movement dedicated to celebrating and preserving the legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities through premier events, community engagement and youth-focused initiatives. Learn more at www.bighbcu.com