One Philly HBCU Week 2026 brings more than just football action to Philadelphia

One Philly HBCU Week 2026 brings more than just football action to Philadelphia

The rich culture, time-honored traditions, and high-stakes football of prestigious Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) will take center stage across Philadelphia for a six-day citywide celebration from October 26–31, 2026.

Philadelphia Eagles legends Michael Vick and DeSean Jackson are set to lead their respective programs — the Norfolk State Spartans and the Delaware State Hornets — into South Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field on Halloween 2026. After drawing more than 47,000 raucous fans to witness Jackson’s Hornets beat Vick’s Spartans in last year’s classic, the 2026 showcase of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) is expanding far beyond the gridiron.

Fans at the 2025 HBCU Classic at Lincoln Financial Field

Philadelphia celebrates HBCU culture during One Philly HBCU Week 2026

From October 26 through October 31, 2026, the music, faith, Greek life, and enduring traditions of HBCUs will be on full display during the inaugural One Philly HBCU Week 2026.

The gridiron action kicks off ahead of Saturday’s main event: on Friday, October 30 at 7 p.m. ET, Chester County’s own Lincoln University takes on Virginia Union University at Lincoln Financial Field, featuring a special halftime performance by rap superstar Ludacris. The weekend culminates on Saturday, October 31 at 3 p.m. ET with the highly anticipated rematch between Norfolk State and Delaware State.

Beyond the games, the six-day festival features a lineup of community events, including an explosive battle of the bands, a collegiate choir competition, student and alumni step shows, a job fair, and a clergy appreciation event. The week-wide initiative came together through a collaboration between the City of Philadelphia, Mayor Cherelle Parker’s Office, the Philadelphia Eagles and numerous community partners.

“One Philly HBCU Week is about celebrating the excellence, history and traditions of our HBCUs while creating opportunities for the next generation,” said Parker, a proud graduate of Lincoln University. “Whether you are a student considering college, a proud HBCU graduate, a member of the Divine Nine or simply someone who loves the culture, there is something for you during this week.”

Step Show at the 2025 HBCU Classic at Lincoln Financial Field

Tickets for 2026 HBCU Classic games

Tickets for both 2026 HBCU Classic matchups — Virginia Union University Vs Lincoln University and Delaware State University Vs Norfolk State University — are available now through Ticketmaster, with seats starting at just $42.

Exact schedules, venue locations, and admission guidelines for non-game events will be released through official partner and university channels.

Traveling to Philadelphia for the festivities? Explore the official PHLCVB’s Visitors Guide for expert recommendations on top places to stay, local dining, and iconic sights across the city.