HBCU Halftime to Host The Big HBCU Classic Battle of The Bands November 11

HBCU Halftime to Host The Big HBCU Classic Battle of The Bands at Irwin Belk Complex on the Campus of Johnson C. Smith University during Veteran’s Day Weekend 

The inaugural event will showcase the majesty, pride and artistry of some of the top collegiate marching bands in the southeast region

An estimated five thousand people will gather on the campus of Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU), a private Historically Black College and University located in the heart of the Queen City, to enjoy the inaugural Big HBCU Classic Battle of the Bands scheduled for Sunday, November 11 from noon until 8 p.m. The event, organized by Halftime is Gametime and Kingdom Plug, is sponsored by Allstate and Marriott, and will take place at Irwin Belk Complex (500 N. Summit Street, on JCSU’s campus). Featured bands include Benedict College, Johnson C. Smith University, North Carolina A & T University, North Carolina Central University, South Carolina State University and Winston Salem State University.

Charlotte has a strong and rich Battle Of The Bands history, which dates back to close to a decade.  To fill that void, organizers hope that the Big HBCU Classic Battle of the Bands will spark a new tradition here in Charlotte and will unite the city for a day of safe, family-friendly fun and entertainment. A portion of ticket sales and sponsorship dollars totaling an estimated $50,000 will be donated and distributed to the band programs of the six participating colleges and universities.

“The Big HBCU Classic is important because it not only fills a void for marching band fans, but it is an event that provides education and career opportunities to communities, acknowledge our brave veterans, all while bringing a new safe and fun family-oriented signature event that will positively impact the city of Charlotte,” says Frank Johnson, HBCU Half-Time’s CEO.

In addition to the six participating collegiate bands, four top high school marching bands will showcase their talents on the field as opening acts to the main battle. Other events planned for the day include a free fan experience complete with live performances from local musical acts, vendors, food trucks and a career fair.  Performers scheduled to appear include Christian School of Dance, Jason Jet , Young Citizen, Talysha Jomiya Jones and Patrick Love and Company. City officials and other special guests will also be in attendance.

The official schedule of events for Sunday, November 11 include:

• Fan Fest 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. (free and open to the public)
• College and Career Fair sponsored by Allstate 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. (free and open to the public)
• Tailgating (VIP Area Only) 12 p.m. – 8 p.m. (VIP ticket holders)
• Gates Open 4 p.m.
• Battle of The Bands 5 p.m.

To purchase tickets or to learn more, visit HBCUHalftime.com. For media inquiries, press credentials and interview requests, contact Jameka S. Whitten at 704.965.3297 or jameka@jswmediagroup.com. Follow @HBCUHalftime  and #BigHBCUClassic on Instagram for news and regular updates.