The Southern Heritage Classic will be held at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium on Sept. 12, 2026, the second Saturday in September, organizers announced. The game will feature a rematch of last year’s contest between Alcorn State University and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.
The game has been scheduled to return to its traditional date, with renovations at the stadium expected to be completed in time for the college football season. This marks the fourth consecutive appearance for Arkansas-Pine Bluff and the second straight for Alcorn State, both competing in a Southwestern Athletic Conference game. Alcorn State will serve as the home team, as UAPB hosted last year.
Fred Jones Jr., founder of the Southern Heritage Classic, expressed enthusiasm about the event’s return to Memphis. He highlighted the event’s role in showcasing HBCU programs and promoting cultural celebration. Last year, Arkansas-Pine Bluff won the game 24-20.
The Classic, established in 1990, has hosted 34 games with more than 1.5 million fans in attendance. Participating schools have collectively earned over $16.1 million. The event features a variety of activities, including a fashion show, parade, tailgate, and halftime performances by marching bands from both schools. The bands gained recognition at national events, with UAPB’s Marching Musical Machine of the Mid-South performing at the Honda Battle of the Bands and Alcorn State’s Sounds of Dyn-O-Mite playing at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Additional festivities include a College and Career Fair, which drew over 3,700 young people last year, and are intended to engage the Memphis community. The Classic also maintains broadcast partnerships, streaming the game live on HBCU Go and its mobile app, ensuring nationwide exposure. The event has been renewed through 2032, with plans for ongoing community and cultural events surrounding the game.
