If ESSENCE Festival is the Superbowl of Black culture, then the Bayou Classic is the official homecoming game and halftime show of the south’s rich HBCU legacy.
For over four decades, the Bayou Classic has played host to one of the south’s biggest HBCU sports rivalries over Thanksgiving weekend. Bringing alumni, current students and fans from across the country under one roof in New Orleans, Louisiana, the magic that happens when Grambling State University and Southern University-Baton Rouge meet for this annual face-off in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome is second to none.
While the game itself is at the heart of the celebration, it’s the halftime show that proves a true highlight every year as the Grambling Tiger marching band and Southern University “Human Jukebox” marching band take the field to put on a show you have to see to believe.
Here’s a roundup of breathtaking images to give you just a small taste of what’s to come. For more information on how you can be a part of it all, visit the official Bayou Classic website HERE.
01
Are you ready to be entertained?
A drum major from the Southern University Marching Band shows the crowd how it’s done.
02
Slay And Be Merry
The ladies of the Southern University “Dancing Dolls” dance team always bring it.
03
The Bands Don’t Come To Play
When the Grambling Tigers marching band hits the field, it’s a done deal.
04
A Citywide Celebration
New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell is ready to cheer on both teams!
05
Always In Formation
The Grambling State Orchesis dance team already lit up the Beychella stage, so we can’t wait to see what’s in store when they hit the field.
06
It’s All In The Knees
A drum major from Southern University’s “Human Jukebox” marching band gives the crowd a show.
07
Pucker Up!
The Southern University Dancing Dolls are always ready with a fierce pose for the camera.
08
Bow Down
When the Grambling Stage Tigers marching band hits the field, it’s all eyes on them!
09
Black Girl Magic
Contagious smiles and fabulous uniforms are just two of many things that make the Southern University Dancing Dolls unforgettable
10
Fun For The Whole Family
Two of Grambling’s youngest fans take the field for a priceless family moment.
11
Flipping Out
The Southern University cheerleaders keep everyone on their toes!
12
A United Front
The Grambling Tigers marching band uniforms turn all the heads when they hit the field.
13
Ladies In Red….And Gold
The Grambling State Orchesis dance team are ready to blow you away!
14
Kicking It Into High Gear
Expect nothing less than dancing perfection with the ladies of the Southern University Dancing Dolls take the field!
15
An Everlasting Legacy
From the football teams, to the marching bands, to the dancers, to the cheerleaders, to the fans…the Bayou Classic will forever remain a staple HBCU history.
