Labor Day weekend is quickly approaching, and everyone knows what that means: the Orange Blossom Classic is returning to the Hard Rock Stadium! One of the most anticipated events in the history of HBCUs, the FAMU Rattlers will face off against the Howard Bison on Saturday, a rivalry tracing back to the first Classic in 1933.
We’ve put together all the essentials you’ll need for this year’s game including when and where to watch, ticket info and weekend highlights.
🏈 What is the Orange Blossom Classic?
First established in 1933, this college football game is a celebration of HBCU culture and community. Each year, the Orange Blossom Classic features a matchup between two teams that takes place over Labor Day weekend at the Hard Rock Stadium. It originally ran from 1933 to 1978 as the premier postseason classic for HBCU football, and after a 43-year hiatus, was revived in 2021 to raise scholarship funds and create opportunities for students.
🏈 When is this year’s Orange Blossom Classic?
The 2025 Invesco QQQ Orange Blossom Classic will take place at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Saturday, August 30th. Kickoff is scheduled for 4 p.m.
If you can’t make it to the game for any reason, it will be broadcast live on ESPNU.
🏈 How to get tickets for the Orange Blossom Classic
Tickets for the 51st edition of the Classic are available for purchase now on Ticketmaster or via the official website at orangeblossomclassic.com. At time of publication, they start at $35 and range up to $108.
🏈 What else should I know?
If you’re traveling to the game, Brightline is offering riders 15% off SMART and PREMIUM fares with promo code OBC15. Travel would be to the Aventura Station.
If you’re looking to pregame on August 30, the Tobacco Free Florida Fan Fest will take over the South Lawn of the Hard Rock Stadium with food trucks, vendors and a live performance by Ball Greezy. The family-friendly celebration is free with a game ticket, starting at noon.
Additionally, the Pepsi Challenge HBCU Tour will hit up the Fan Fest area on the South side of the stadium with limited-edition merch, custom mocktails, live DJs, tasty bites and capsule collection giveaways. It will run from 12 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
If you’re heading to an afterparty, the official OBC Afterparty is bringing together fans, alumni and partygoers to close out the night in true HBCU fashion. It’ll take place at La Tropical Wynwood on August 30, from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m., with DJs, special guests and an unforgettable vibe.