Historic Rematch Set for Labor Day Weekend at Hard Rock Stadium
By Brandace Dean | 305.744.5758
Email: [email protected]
The stage is set for an exciting rematch this Labor Day Weekend as the Florida A&M University (FAMU) Rattlers return to theOrange Blossom Classic (OBC) to face off against the Howard University Bison at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. This matchup not only promises to be an electrifying game but also brings the OBC full circle, honoring its historic beginnings.
In a special moment during today’s press conference, FAMU signed a multi-year deal to participate in the Orange Blossom Classic, solidifying their commitment to this iconic event. The OBC is proud to celebrate FAMU’s ongoing partnership and its vital role in continuing the tradition of HBCU excellence.
The 2025 Orange Blossom Classic rekindles a storied rivalry between two legendary HBCU football programs. The last time these teams met, FAMU defeated Howard in a nail-biting 2023 Cricket Celebration Bowl, with a final score of 30-26. This year’s rematch gives Howard the opportunity to even the score, while FAMU looks to maintain its dominance on the field.
“This year’s matchup is not only a rematch of their 2023 Celebration Bowl showdown, but it also takes us back to the very beginning,” said Kendra Bulluck-Major, Executive Director of the Orange Blossom Classic. “The inaugural Orange Blossom Classic in 1933 featured these two historic programs—Florida A&M and Howard—facing off at the Black Only’s Ballpark in Jacksonville, Florida, in front of 2,000 fans. To see this rivalry come full circle, while celebrating the rich history and legacy of HBCUs, is truly special. We are excited to bring this experience to fans during Labor Day Weekend 2025.”
A Historic Legacy of HBCU Excellence
“The Orange Blossom Classic represents much more than football—it’s a celebration of community, culture, and the incredible legacy of HBCUs,” said Oliver Gilbert III, Commissioner of Miami-Dade County’s District 1. “Bringing FAMU and Howard together again continues the tradition of excellence that this game has always embodied. Labor Day Weekend 2025 will be one to remember, and Miami Gardens is ready to welcome fans and alumni to this historic event.”
“Our city is proud to host the Orange Blossom Classic once again in 2025,” said Rodney Harris, Mayor of the City of Miami Gardens. “This event brings excitement, unity, and energy to Miami Gardens, and we are thrilled to welcome back fans and alumni for another unforgettable weekend.”
Pre-Sale Tickets Launch
Fans can secure their spot at Hard Rock Stadium by joining the OBC email list atorangeblossomclassic.com to access an exclusive pre-sale code. Pre-sale tickets will go live on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at 5 p.m. and will be available through Sunday, February 2, 2025, at 10 a.m. General ticket sales will begin via Ticketmaster on Monday, February 3, 2025, at 10 a.m.
As the Official Ticketing Partner of Hard Rock Stadium, Ticketmaster provides fans with the safest and most convenient platform to purchase tickets for the live events they love. Ticketmaster is the only marketplace that can guarantee that the ticket and seat you buy is the ticket and seat you’ll get. To ensure the best ticket buying experience, fans should purchase from official sources like Ticketmaster, the Hard Rock Stadium website or the venue box office.
The 2025 Orange Blossom Classic promises an unforgettable week of activities, including the highly anticipated Battle of the Bands, the Fan Fest, and more, celebrating the vibrant culture and excellence of HBCUs. To get tickets and to join our email list, visitwww.orangeblossomclassic.com. Follow @OrangeBlossomFB to stay connected with us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter (X). For sponsorship opportunities, please contact us at [email protected].
High-resolution images from the press conference are available here.
For more information or to schedule interviews, please contact: Derek D. Ross [email protected]
About the Orange Blossom Classic
Founded in 1933 by J.R.E. Lee Jr., the son of Florida A&M University’s president, the inaugural Orange Blossom Classic welcomed 2,000 fans to the “blacks-only” ballpark in Jacksonville, Florida, where FAMU defeated Howard 9-0 and successfully established the foundation of HBCU classics. After a 43-year hiatus, the OBC was re-established in 2021 with a mission to enhance the exposure of HBCUs. Now in its fifth year since the revival, the OBC attracts thousands of fans, alumni, school members, and families, celebrating the cultural and academic excellence of HBCUs while generating impactful scholarship opportunities and economic benefits.
For more information, visit www.orangeblossomclassic.com.