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The Bayou Classic returns to New Orleans for its 49th year with its series of fan and family-friendly events throughout the Thanksgiving holiday and weekend. Each year, this weekend of events brings together family, friends and alumni of Grambling State University and Southern University to see one of America’s greatest college sports rivalries and celebrate football, family and the traditions surrounding Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
“We welcome fans, families, alumni and visitors to return to New Orleans and the Caesars Superdome to experience the best of the classics at this year’s 49th celebration of the Number One HBCU Classic in the nation,” says Dottie Belletto, President and CEO of New Orleans Convention Company, Inc. (NOCCI), the management firm of the Bayou Classic.
Kickoff for the 49th Annual Bayou Classic game day is planned for 1 pm CST on Saturday, November 26.
NBCU Academy: NBCU Academy Day at Bayou Classic will include early career professionals and students from Xavier University of Louisiana, Grambling State University, Southern University (Baton Rouge, LA), Dillard University and Southern University at New Orleans. Students will hear from NBCU and NBC Sports leaders and learn career and professional development tips.
The Bayou Classic Invitational High School Battle of the Bands: The Bayou Classic Invitational High School Battle of the Bands is sure to add tremendous excitement to the already popular Bayou Classic Fan Fest. This inaugural event will feature six of New Orleans’ top high school marching bands - St. Augustine, L.B. Laundry, Edna Karr, G.W. Carver, Abramson Sci Academy and McDonough 35, who will compete for an amazing array of music education prizes provided by the Ludwig, a Division of Conn Selmer, as well as trophies. Curtis Akeem, a Ludwig percussionist and social network influencer, known for his Dolla Watson comedic character, will entertain as the celebrity MC.
National Anthem: The national anthem for Bayou Classic will be presented by the breakout country music trio, Chapel Hart. Chapel Hart is taking country music by storm with their chill-inducing, three-part harmonies and powerful message of unity. The Mississippi trio was named one of CMT’s Next Women of Country 2021 and the music video for their song “Made For Me” charted at #3 on CMT’s 12 Pack Countdown. They were given the “Golden Buzzer” of NBC’s American’s Got Talent and came in fifth place in the competition.
Bayou Classic Halftime Show: This year’s Bayou Classic Halftime Show is once again presented by The Coca-Cola Company. This always-electrifying performance is one of the highlights of the weekend each year and the presenting sponsor is bringing special surprises to this year’s performance.
Coaching staff: Both Southern and Grambling will have new head football coaches this year.
Southern University Athletics formally announced Eric Dooley as the 20th Head Coach of the Jaguar Football program in December 2021. Grambling State University introduced Hue Jackson as the 14th head football coach in Tiger history in December 2021.
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