Florida Classic Weekend Kicks Off in Orlando with Exciting Events

ORLANDO, Fla. — The 2025 Florida Classic Weekend is underway, bringing thousands of fans to Central Florida for a celebration of football and community. The festivities, which began on Thursday, Nov. 20, will run through Saturday, Nov. 22, highlighting the 80th meeting between Florida A&M University and Bethune-Cookman University.

This year, organizers expect over 100,000 visitors, significantly impacting the local economy. Central Florida Market President Tony Jenkins from Florida Blue notes that the event typically injects approximately $30 million into the area each year.

Justin Kinsey, a board member for Florida Citrus Sports, emphasized the event’s familial atmosphere, describing it as a ‘big family reunion.’ Many attendees are expected to be alumni and families from both universities, fostering a sense of community and nostalgia amidst the excitement.

Highlighting new activities, an inaugural golf tournament kicked off on Thursday at Eagle Creek Golf Club with participation from over 20 teams. Jenkins expressed enthusiasm for this addition, believing it further enhances the weekend’s offerings.

Friday evening featured the Florida Blue Battle of the Bands at Kia Center, captivating audiences with performances from local high school bands and the marching bands from both universities. Fans were already gearing up for the big game, with vendors setting up booths around Camping World Stadium.

Alongside the football game on Saturday, there will be a Florida Classic Fan Fest at Tinker Field, allowing fans to gather and enjoy various activities before the game kicks off at 3:30 p.m.

Many locals, like Mack Harris, who has been serving barbecue in Kissimmee for over a decade, view the event as beneficial for the entire community: “Everybody down here makes money, the whole neighborhood,” he said, excitedly gearing up for the influx of hungry fans.

As the weekend progresses, attendees should be aware of road closures near Camping World Stadium due to the festivities. Authorities are closely monitoring traffic to ensure safety as visitors arrive in droves for both the event and the surrounding Thanksgiving holidays.

The Florida Classic is more than just a football game; it is a vibrant celebration that reinforces the connection between the schools and their communities, making it a pivotal event for Orlando.