Florida A&M University is once again at the center of the Orange Blossom Classic, renewing one of the most recognizable traditions in HBCU football.
For decades, the Rattlers have been synonymous with the Orange Blossom Classic, facing top HBCU opponents while showcasing the nationally acclaimed Marching 100, whose performances, along with the Classic’s signature parade, have become staples of the annual celebration.
Although the re-established Orange Blossom Classic has evolved since its return in 2021, with some pregame festivities taking on new formats, the parade remains a cornerstone of the event. Bands, dancers and colorful floats continue to celebrate HBCU culture and community pride throughout Miami Gardens.
Florida A&M will open the 2026 season in the Orange Blossom Classic on Labor Day weekend, facing defending HBCU national champion South Carolina State on Sept. 7 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.
Founded on Florida A&M’s campus, the Orange Blossom Classic grew into one of the premier events in HBCU athletics and was once widely regarded as the unofficial Black college football national championship.
That history made the Rattlers’ absence from the 2024 game especially notable before the program returned to the Classic in 2025.
“When you think about the Orange Blossom Classic, it’s synonymous with FAMU,” event director Kendra Bulluck-Major told HBCU Sports. “It was always FAMU. There aren’t too many games in this space identified with one school the way the OBC is with Florida A&M.”
Bulluck-Major said organizers always envisioned Florida A&M as a permanent fixture of the event.
“It was always our intention for FAMU to be a part of the game,” she said. “As far as we were concerned, they would be there in perpetuity.”
She explained that the Rattlers’ one-year absence stemmed from decisions made by university leadership at the time rather than by Classic organizers. Once new leadership took over, reuniting Florida A&M with the event quickly became a priority.
“Once new leadership came on board, it was a no-brainer,” Bulluck-Major said. “If there’s an Orange Blossom Classic, there needs to be a FAMU.”
Bulluck-Major also emphasized South Florida’s strong connection to the university, noting that the region is home to one of Florida A&M’s largest alumni bases.
“To be able to have them here, seeing FAMU in their backyard, and introducing the university to a new generation, that was very important,” she said.
