Orange County

9 things to know about the Florida Classic

ORLANDO, Fla. — The nation’s largest football game between two Historically Black College/University (HBCU) schools will take place in Orlando this weekend.

Here are nine things to know about the Florida Blue Florida Classic happening at Camping World Stadium on Saturday:

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1. The Florida Blue Florida Classic between Florida A&M University and Bethune-Cookman University will kick off Saturday at 3:30 p.m.

2. The first Florida Classic between Florida A&M University and Bethune-Cookman University was held in Tallahassee in 1925.

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3. Through 74 meetings thus far, the Rattlers hold a 50-24-1 series lead, thanks in large part to FAMU’s early success — including a run of 25 wins in 26 games between 1930 and 1972.

4. Lynx said that due to the Florida Blue Florida Classic, streets around Camping World Stadium will be closed on Saturday from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. As a result, Links 20, 21, 36 and 107 will be detoured.

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5. On game day on Saturday, Camping World Stadium on-site parking is sold out. Florida Classic fans are encouraged to arrive early and utilize the alternate parking and free transportation options available.

6. The city of Orlando will offer free downtown shuttle service to Camping World Stadium. The pick-up location is at Division Avenue and South Street with drop-offs at Nashville Avenue and Church Street. Shuttle buses will run to and from the stadium throughout the day from 11:30 a.m. until an hour after the game. Maps and links for other downtown surface lots and garages are available at CityOfOrlando.net.

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7. Tailgating is allowed in all Camping World Stadium lots except Jones High School. Please visit Camping World Stadium’s website for its full tailgating policy.

8. To provide a safer environment for the public and significantly expedite patron entry to Camping World Stadium, a “clear bag” policy will be implemented at the below upcoming events. This policy limits the size and type of bags that may be brought into the stadium.

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9. The Florida Blue Battle of the Bands will happen on Friday at 7 p.m. at the Amway Center. Guests can expect dance teams, high-stepping drum majors, precision drum lines and roaring brass sections. Tickets start at $16.

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Sarah Wilson

Sarah Wilson, WFTV.com

Sarah Wilson joined WFTV Channel 9 in 2018 as a digital producer after working as an award-winning newspaper reporter for nearly a decade in various communities across Central Florida.