The annual FAMU–Bethune-Cookman rivalry returns November 21, with alumni celebrations, scholarship fundraisers and community events throughout Central Florida.
ORLANDO, Fla. — The Florida Classic returns to Orlando on Saturday, November 21, bringing Florida A&M University and Bethune-Cookman University together for one of the nation’s most celebrated Historically Black College and University (HBCU) football rivalries.
Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. at Camping World Stadium. Beyond football, the annual gathering celebrates Black college traditions, marching bands, alumni connections and community pride.
The Greater Orlando Chapter of the Florida A&M University National Alumni Association (FAMU NAA) is preparing a series of activities to welcome Rattlers and supporters from across the country.
Florida Classic Week Celebrations in Orlando
The festivities include an inaugural Classic Kickoff Mixer on Thursday, November 19, at 7 p.m. at the Royal Palms Elks Lodge, 554 W. Church Street in Orlando. The gathering will feature music, entertainment, networking and DJ Yoshe.
The Florida Classic Consortium Kickoff Luncheon follows Friday, November 20, at 11:30 a.m. at the Rosen Centre Hotel.
Additional activities include the Florida Golf Classic at Celebration Golf Club on November 20. The tournament supports scholarships for Orange County students attending FAMU.
The alumni association is also offering its Ride to the Classic experience, with chartered transportation to Camping World Stadium.
FAMU Alumni Expand Community Outreach
The Greater Orlando alumni chapter reports having 199 active members, bringing it close to its membership goal of 201.
Beyond the Classic celebrations, members are supporting local families through Thanksgiving meal distribution, student recruitment and community service.
The chapter is also hosting Destination FAMU and Ignite 407 on November 20, connecting prospective students with information about college admissions, financial aid, scholarships and transferring to FAMU.
The initiatives highlight how HBCU alumni organizations continue serving their communities beyond graduation.
A Rivalry Rooted in HBCU History
The Florida Classic began in 1978 and has grown into a major HBCU football tradition, drawing generations of supporters to celebrate FAMU and Bethune-Cookman.
For many attendees, the game is also a reunion that celebrates Black educational achievement, family traditions and the cultural legacy of both universities.
The 2026 matchup features FAMU’s Marching 100 and Bethune-Cookman’s Marching Wildcats, whose performances are a signature part of the Classic experience.
Game tickets and additional information are available at FloridaClassic.org. Alumni activities and registration details are available through the Greater Orlando FAMU Alumni Chapter.
Sources: Florida A&M University National Alumni Association Greater Orlando Chapter, November 2026 newsletter; Florida Classic Consortium; Florida A&M University.
