Weeklong Celebration Surrounds Annual Historic HBCU Football Showdown Between Prairie View A&M and Grambling State
Dallas (September 21, 2026) – The City of Dallas and the Dallas Sports Commission will welcome fans from across Texas, Louisiana and beyond to Dallas for the 101st annual State Fair Classic, as Prairie View A&M University and Grambling State University prepare to renew one of the most storied rivalries in HBCU football.
The highly anticipated Southwestern Athletic Conference matchup will take place on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 6 p.m. CT, at the historic Cotton Bowl Stadium in Fair Park. The State Fair Classic brings together generations of fans to celebrate football, music, culture, community and the rich traditions of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Dating back to 1985, Grambling State holds a 28-12 lead in the series following Prairie View A&M’s victory last year.
“The State Fair Classic is a tradition that brings together generations of fans through the shared love of football, music, culture, and community,” said Mitchell Glieber, President of the State Fair of Texas. “As we welcome the Classic back for its 101st year, we’re proud to celebrate the history and spirit, while creating another memorable experience for families and fans at the State Fair of Texas.”
The State Fair Classic is renowned for its pageantry and showmanship, featuring captivating halftime performances by the Prairie View A&M University Marching Storm and Grambling State University’s World Famed Tiger Marching Band. Beyond the game and halftime show, State Fair Classic tickets provide access to the State Fair of Texas and the Midway, as well as pre-and post-game entertainment on the Chevy Main Stage, including Pykn Beard, Steve Ray Ladson, The Boykinz Sisters, and JAYDON.
“For over 50 years, this historic football clash on the field has been the center of my work to grow the State Fair Classic,” said Al Wash, Founder, ALW Entertainment. “But it goes beyond the game as this is a celebration of HBCU culture, entertainment and communities that supported this tradition and we’re excited to continue building on that legacy as we head into the 101st year of the State Fair Classic this week.”
The State Fair Classic’s history dates back to 1925, when Wiley College faced Langston University in the inaugural game. More than a century later, Prairie View A&M and Grambling State will continue the tradition bringing alumni, students, fans, and families together in Dallas for one of the nation’s enduring HBCU football traditions. The 101st State Fair Classic will also feature a slate of events and activities surrounding the game, creating a weekly celebration of HBCU culture, athletics and community.
“The State Fair Classic is a tremendous example of the power of sports to bring people together and create lasting experiences in our community,” said Monica Paul, Executive Director of the Dallas Sports Commission. “For over a century, this tradition has connected generations of HBCU fans to Dallas, and we’re proud to welcome it back to the city for another year of this iconic rivalry.”
Schedule of Events
Thursday, September 24
- 5:30 PM VIP Reception (Invite Only)
- 7:00 PM Run it Up State Fair Classic HBCU Run
Friday, September 25
- 4:00 PM Collie J. Nicholson North Dallas Chapter Happy Hour
- 5:00 PM State Fair Classic Celebrity Meet & Greet
- 6:00 PM 28th Annual Scholarship Gala & Silent Auction
- 7:00 PM UNTIL Welcome Soiree – Grambling State University Metro DFW Alumni Chapter
- 8:00 PM Club Odyssey Welcome to Dallas Party
Saturday, September 26
- 8:00 AM Grambling State University Metro DFW Alumni Chapter and Lancaster High School Marching Band High School Battle of the Bands and Dance Squads
- 3:30 PM Pre-game Performance: SWAC Country Showdown with performances by Country artists PYNK BEARD, STEVE RAY LADSON, THE BOYKINZ (Chevy Main Stage) hosted by Fat Daddy
- 6:00 PM Kickoff: Prairie View A&M Panthers vs Grambling State University Tigers
National Anthem: Performed by VirLinda Stanton (Tyler Texas Native)
Black National Anthem: Performed by American Idol Top 20 performer Makiyah
Opening Prayer: Rev. Frederick Douglas Haynes, III
- 5th Quarter: Battle of the Bands with PVAMU and GSU
- 8:30 PM Post-Game Concert: Jaydon
Sunday, September 27
- 10:00 AM Worship Service at Friendship West Baptist Church
For additional information about the State Fair Classic, including how to purchase tickets, visit statefairclassicfootball.com.
