Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic Schedule of Events


2024 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS/FAN GUIDE

 

Thursday, Aug. 29 (Education Day)

*All events, locations, artists and times subject to change.


READING THE PLAYBOOK — BOOKS SPONSORED BY SHEARER'S FOODS

9 a.m. | Stark and Summit County Schools

Our local community partners and Stark and Summit County's The Divine Nine (Black Greek Letter fraternity and sorority organizations) are committed to coaching kids to an education touchdown through a “Reading the Playbook” event during the Classic weekend. This event incorporates mentors and leaders with elementary students for a time of reading and inspiring a strong first-quarter start in life.

 

CLASSIC COLLEGE FAIR 

9 a.m. - NoonHigh school students are invited to join colleges from across the country, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities at the 3rd Annual Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic College Fair at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. | Pro Football Hall of Fame, Nash Family Event & Conference Center

High school students are invited to join colleges from across the country, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities at the 4th Annual Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic College Fair at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. In addition to interacting with college representatives, the fair will include live breakout sessions with college personnel presenting on the admissions process and current or former HBCU students presenting on the experience of attending an HBCU. Please RSVP to secure spots for your students. Seating and capacity are limited for this event. For more information or to reserve spots for your students, contact [email protected].

 

BLACK COLLEGE FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME COMMUNITY CAREER JOB FAIR

4 - 6 p.m. | Timken Commons Campus, 521 Tuscarawas St. W, Canton, OH

In collaboration with Ohio Means Jobs, the third annual Black College Football Hall of Fame Community Career Fair is returning to highlight job opportunities throughout Stark and Tuscarawas counties.

Register for the fair here.


STILL STANDING DINNER THEATER

5 p.m. | Canton Cultural Center for the Arts, 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton, OH 44702

Tickets: $75; available for purchase here.

Join us at the Still Standing Dinner Theater for a special event that supports the Margaret "Joan" Gillespie Endowment Fund and is presented by the Greater Stark County Urban League. Enjoy a delectable dining experience from A Difference In Dining and Sweet Lemon Creations, ensuring a feast for your senses. The evening's highlight will be a performance by Tony Award winner and four-time Grammy nominee Melba Moore in her musical story, "Still Standing." This powerful narrative takes you through Moore's life, showcasing her remarkable resilience and talent. Experience her career's emotional highs and lows, all intertwined with themes of perseverance and inner strength. Don’t miss this chance to enjoy fine dining, outstanding theater and heartfelt philanthropy. Mark your calendar for a night celebrating the power of women, the magic of music and the art of storytelling, all while supporting a worthy cause at an event that promises to uplift and entertain.
 

Friday, Aug. 30 (Fellowship Day)

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY DAY OF SERVICE

9 a.m. - Noon |  Habitat for Humanity Campus, 1400 Raff Road SW, Canton, OH 44710

Team up with Habitat for Humanity East Central Ohio for a “Building Blitz” morning. You'll help build and paint the garden sheds that are part of the home each Habitat family purchases. No experience or tools required — bring a good team spirit and Habitat will provide all the tools and materials needed. Huddle up and help make a difference that lasts with Habitat for Humanity! This rain or shine event is free, but registration is required. All participants must be at least 18 years old to participate.

Register to volunteer here.​​​​



OLD SCHOOL THROWBACK JAM

8 p.m. - 1 a.m. | Pro Football Hall of Fame, Nash Family Event & Conference Center

Tickets: $40; available for purchase here.

In collaboration with TKD Productions. Kick off Classic Weekend at the Old School Throwback Jam! Groove to your favorite old school tunes spun by DJ Tasha Beatz inside the Pro Football Hall of Fame. While costumes are not required and casual attire is welcome, dress to impress in your old school attire — apple hats, platform shoes, afro wigs, Kangol hats, bamboo earrings and bellbottoms and compete for prizes for "best dressed."

 

Saturday, Aug. 31 (Community Day)

CLEARVIEW GOLF CLASSIC PRESENTED BY SHEETZ

Join Black College Football Hall of Famers and many others for the third annual Classic Golf Outing at the historic Clearview Golf Club.8 a.m. |  Clearview Golf Club

Join Black College Football Hall of Famers and many others for the Clearview Golf Classic at the historic Clearview Golf Club. Clearview Golf Club is the first golf course in the United States that was constructed, owned and operated by an African American. The course was purchased in 1946 by National Black Golf Hall of Famer Bill Powell and opened as an integrated course to the public in April 1948. For more information, contact Kyle Heim at [email protected] or Vince Guardado at [email protected].  
 


HBCU FAMILY BLOCK PARTY PRESENTED BY CSE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

Join us for a day full of fun in downtown Canton at Centennial Plaza. The Block Party will feature nonstop entertainment including music, line dancing, games, prizes and more.11 a.m. - 8 p.m. |  Centennial Plaza, Downtown Canton

Join us for a day full of fun in downtown Canton at Centennial Plaza. The Block Party will feature nonstop entertainment including music, line dancing, games, prizes and more. Food trucks and some of the area’s best vendors will be there to show off Canton’s finest. Vendors: TBD. Performers: TBD. 


 

FAITH, FAMILY & FOOTBALL GOSPEL CONCERT FEATURING ERICA CAMPBELL PRESENTED BY THE GOOD FEET STORE

As a part of the downtown HBCU Family Block Party, the night will be highlighted with a free gospel concert featuring Grammy award-winning superstar Tamela Mann.5:30 - 8 p.m. | Centennial Plaza, Downtown Canton

As a part of the downtown HBCU Family Block Party, the night will be highlighted with a free gospel concert featuring Grammy Award-winning superstar Erica Campbell. Presented by The Good Feet Store. The concert is free, but tickets for VIP seating and combo packages will be available for purchase. Opening acts: TBD. 

Learn more about the concert and tickets here.



OFFICIAL ALL WHITE AFFAIR

9 p.m. - 2:30 a.m. | Canton Civic Center

In collaboration with the Kappa Tau Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.. Back by popular demand for Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic Weekend — it's the official All White Party presented by the Divine Nine. Adults only. Get your tickets, your white outfit and get ready to start the night with the smooth sounds of Hubb's Groove, then prepare to turn up with DJ Lo-Key. If you attended last year, you already know it is going to be a great night! If you missed it last year, don't sleep on this! For more information, contact Monty Pender at 330-754-4376.
 

Sunday, Sept. 1 (Game Day)

CECELIA PONDER INTERFAITH SERVICE

9 - 10:30 a.m. | Centennial Plaza, Downtown Canton

A time to come together to worship, pray, give thanks and enjoy fellowship as a community of believers. All faiths and religious denominations are welcome.


THE CLASSIC TAILGATE PRESENTED BY SUGARDALE

A “Classic” tradition! Get ready for an energetic pregame experience on the Pro Football Hall of Fame Campus before kickoff.11 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. | Pro Football Hall of Fame Campus

A “Classic” tradition! Get ready for an energetic pregame experience on the Pro Football Hall of Fame Campus before kickoff. The tailgate will include nonstop entertainment including music, danctin and more. Vendors: TBD.

 


STARK MINORITY BUSINESS RECEPTION PRESENTED BY THE TIMKEN COMPANY, THE OHIO COLLECTIVE & THE A. MORGAN BUILDING GROUP

Noon - 3 p.m. | Pro Football Hall of Fame

Canton has been recognized as an ideal location for the development and establishment of minority businesses. The Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce, Stark Economic Development Board, Stark County Minority Business Association and Stark County Moving Forward have been active in paving the way for the development and expansion of minority businesses. The reception is a networking opportunity meant to provide a relaxed, business-friendly atmosphere for minority and non-minority businesses to experience fellowship, to exchange business cards and otherwise meet and greet in hopes of furthering future business relationships and advancing current ones. 


2024 BLACK COLLEGE FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS PLAQUE UNVEILING

2 p.m. | Black College Football Hall of Fame Gallery, Pro Football Hall of Fame

Come together in the Black College Football Hall of Fame Gallery located inside of the Pro Football Hall of Fame as we unveil the Class of 2024 plaques in their new permanent home. 

 

2024 BLACK COLLEGE FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASSIC GAME FEATURING BENEDICT COLLEGE AND VIRGINIA STATE UNIVERSITY

Come watch the Virginia Union Panthers take on the Morehouse College Maroon Tigers.4 p.m. | Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium

Come watch the Benedict College Tigers take on the Virginia State University Trojans as the two programs face off at the magnificent Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium. After the game, stay to see the presentation of the MVP award and the trophy to the winning team.

Get your tickets here.


THE FIFTH QUARTER PRESENTED BY CSE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

Immediately following the game | Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium

Stay after the game to watch an exciting HBCU marching band tradition known as the Fifth Quarter. Benedict’s Marching Tiger Band of Distinction and Virginia State’s Trojan Explosion Marching Band will battle back and forth to close out the game.

 


MUSEUM HOURS/RATES

 

The front entrance to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

MUSEUM HOURS

Thursday, Aug. 29: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Friday, Aug. 30: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 31: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 1: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

MUSEUM ADMISSION RATES

General admission: $45
Military members/family: $40
First responders: $40
Children (6-12): $38
Children (under 6): FREE
Hall of Fame Members: FREE (Join today)
 


 

PARKING

Pro Football Hall of Fame parking information for 2024 Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic.

(CLICK HERE FOR PDF VERSION)  



 


MUSEUM RULES

To help ensure the security and preservation of our exhibits and artifacts, the Hall has implemented a strict “No Bag Policy.”

Visitors may carry small purses, handbags, fanny packs or small cross-body bags. These bags must not exceed the dimensions of 12 inches x 6 inches x 12 inches.

Although bags are not allowed, we understand guests may need to carry essential items for medical and childcare needs, thus clear bags are authorized and available at the Guest Services counter.

We appreciate your understanding and look forward to providing you a memorable experience filled with rich history and excitement.

Thank you for your cooperation.

The following items will be prohibited when entering the museum: 

  • Weapons
  • Food and drink
  • Clothing items with disruptive words or images (HOF discretion)

Some common items that are permitted: 

  • Strollers
  • Wheelchairs
  • Service assisting animals
  • Cameras


 

STADIUM ENTRY PROCEDURES

 

Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium entry procedures.

(CLICK HERE FOR PDF VERSION)



 


WILL CALL

All walk-up ticket sales and will-call pick-ups will be made available on the following days at the Center for Performance on the Hall of Fame Village Campus:

  • Sunday, Sept. 1: Noon - 6 p.m.


Picking up tickets

Customers will be required to present a valid state or government issued photo ID, driver's license or passport. A valid ID must be duly issued by a government agency and include a photo and a signature.

The Will Call office will not release tickets if the name on the ID does not match the name used to purchase the tickets or if the photo on the ID does not appear to be the photo of the person retrieving the tickets.

It is recommended to bring the order number of ticket purchase and the credit card used to purchase the tickets.

If the ticket purchaser, whose name is on the order, would like to authorize another person to pick up the tickets at Will Call, the purchaser is required to alert the ticket office of the change prior to pick up (see contact information below). The person picking up the tickets will also be required to present a valid photo ID otherwise the tickets will not be released.

Misplaced tickets

In the event that a customer misplaces or fails to bring their tickets to the event, the Pro Football Hall of Fame has the discretion to reprint/re-issue those tickets. A valid ID and/or order number must be presented in order to reprint/re-issue any tickets.

You may contact the Ticket Office at 1-844-4HOFTIX (1-844-446-3849) Option 3 or email us at [email protected].



 

Thank you Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic sponsors


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Visit-Canton-Color-(2).jpg


CSE Federal Credit Union logo.


Employers Health logo.


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Outback Steakhouse logo.


PNC logo.


Welty logo.