This year Circle City Classic is back better than ever with a full lineup of events for those in Indy to enjoy. This annual event is hosted by Indiana Black Expo (IBE) and attracts over 100,000 people to Indianapolis.

If you’ve never taken part in Circle City Classic activities, 2021 is the year to start. Its most popular events include a head-to-head college football game, pep rally, scholarship awards ceremony, and live concerts among other community events. IBE has been a pillar in Indiana for over 50 years and continues to encourage and empower individuals through education, events, and hands-on initiatives.

One of the biggest components of Circle City Classic and IBE is empowering the next generation through academic scholarships. Since 1983, the organization has awarded more than $4.6 million to students. Circle City Classic is where many of those scholarships are awarded.

A football player playing on the field at Lucas Oil Stadium

Photo from previous years; this year, Kentucky State University and Benedict College will face-off at Lucas Oil Stadium for the Circle City Classic

Here is what you can expect during the jam-packed, week-long celebration. 

Circle City Classic® Coronation
September 19 | 5 pm | Marian University Theater
The Circle City Classic® Coronation recognizes the accomplishments of young women in the Black community.

 

Circle City Classic® Pep Rally & Community Day
September 24 | 4 pm | IBE Headquarters
Watch the Kentucky State University and Benedict College bands and cheerleaders perform during the annual pep rally. 

 

A Night of Legends featuring Charlie Wilson and Isley Brothers
September 24 | 7:30 pm | Indiana Farmer’s Coliseum 
Dance the night away with Charlie Wilson and the Isley Brothers.

 

Circle City Classic® Parade 
September 25 | 10 am | North Street & Pennsylvania Street 
As one of the most popular events, you can expect thousands of people to line the streets, dance, and enjoy the entertainment by groups from all over the Midwest. 

 

Circle City Classic® Tailgate
September 25 | 11 am | In front of Lucas Oil Stadium 
Break out your jerseys and other team apparel to cheer on your favorite team before the Kentucky State University v.s. Benedict College game.

 

Radio One Performance Stage
September 25 | 12 pm | Lucas Oil Stadium
See various performers share their talent before the big game.

 

Circle City Classic® Day Party
September 25 | 12 pm | Lucas Oil Stadium
Those 21 and over can enjoy drinks, dancing, and music during this first-come-first-serve day party. 

 

Education Day College Fair
September 25 | 12:30 pm | Lucas Oil Stadium
Middle school and high school students are invited to interact with over 40 traditional and historically black colleges to learn about college admissions, student life, organizations, and scholarship opportunities. 

 

Game Kick-Off: Kentucky State University and Benedict College
September 25 | 3 pm | Lucas Oil Stadium
Watch these two historically black colleges face off in this popular football game that brings thousands of people to Lucas Oil Stadium.

 

Battle of the Bands Halftime Performance
September 25 | 3 pm | Lucas Oil Stadium
Don’t miss the infamous Battle-of-the-Bands during the halftime show that will feature the KSU Marching Thorobreds vs. The Benedict Band of Distinction.

 

Circle City Comedy Jam
September 25 | 7:30 pm & 11 pm | Murat Theatre at Old National Centre
Laugh all night long with comedy acts like Arnez J, Tony Roberts, Da Brat, Black Tony, and Guy Torry.

 

Learn more about Circle City Classic and where to purchase tickets here.

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