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Circle City Classic returns for its 40th year

In addition to the football game, events include a parade, Talent Day, and the president’s reception gala.

INDY_Lucas Oil Stadium_aerial view_JAN2023

After several decades in the RCA Dome, the Circle City Classic moved to Lucas Oil Stadium in 2008.

What’s more classic than 40 years of exhilarating football matchups?

The Circle City Classic, one of the oldest HBCU games in the country, returns to Lucas Oil Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 28 for its 40th anniversary. This year’s game pits the North Carolina Central University Eagles against the Norfolk State University Spartans.

But the big game isn’t the only thing that the Classic offers. Other events in the surrounding days include:

  • Circle City Classic Coronation | Sunday, Sept. 22 | 5 p.m. | This program works with area high school females to advance their skills in academic achievement, community service, and leadership development + awards scholarships to the top three participants.
  • Coaches Luncheon | Friday, Sept. 27 | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | Celebrate coaches, student-athletes, supporters, volunteers, and honorees for their contributions to the Classic. This year, the Major Taylor Award will be presented to Metta World Peace.
  • Talent Day | Friday, Sept. 27 | 1-5 p.m. | Student-athletes, recent college graduates, and aspiring professionals gather to network + learn about employment opportunities and industry sectors directly from employers.
  • President’s Gala | Friday, Sept. 27 | 8-11 p.m. | Enjoy a dinner and live music, with proceeds benefiting the Circle City Classic Scholarship fund, which has awarded more than $5 million in scholarships since 1984.
  • Circle City Classic Parade | Saturday, Sept. 28 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Nearly 100,000 spectators gather each year to watch the pageantry, celebrities, floats, and marching bands.
  • Education Day + College Fair | Saturday, Sept. 28 | 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. | Middle and high school students can learn about college admissions, scholarships, campus programs, and student life directly from the ~30 HBCUs + traditional universities that participate in the event.

Don’t wait to get in on the action — through Monday, Sept. 2, game tickets are buy one get one free.

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