The 2025 Baldwin Richardson Foods Frederick Douglass HBCU Football Classic is coming to the Rochester Community Sports Complex on Saturday, September 27 at 1:00 p.m.

This annual event is more than just a football game, it’s a celebration of tradition, excellence, school pride, and the legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Named for legendary abolitionist and Rochester resident Frederick Douglass, this HBCU Football Classic reflects Douglass’ lasting impact on the Rochester community.

Here is everything you should know before heading to watch the Central State University Marauders take on the Lane College Dragons!

 

Frederick Douglass HBCU College Expo

The special events kick off on Thursday, September 25 with the Frederick Douglass HBCU College Expo at Blue Cross Arena from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Presented by the National College Resources Foundation, this college expo is a chance for prospective students to meet with representatives from more than 20 Historically Black Colleges and Universities to learn about admissions, scholarships, and the HBCU experience.

Interested Students are encouraged to contact their school guidance counselor to reserve a spot. Learn more here.

 

Pre-game Tailgate

Kick off game day early by heading down to the Rochester Community Sports Complex from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and joining in on the tailgate fun before the game!

With great food, live music, games, and a celebration of HBCU pride, this pre-game event is a can’t-miss part of the classic.

Learn more and grab your tickets here.

 

Gametime

After the tailgate, head into the Rochester Community Sports Complex for 1 p.m. gametime! Cheer on your team as the Central State Marauders take on the Lane College Dragons in a game filled with HBCU pride, tradition, and energy. The Frederick Douglass HBCU Football Classic is a celebration of culture and community right here in Rochester.

Pro tip: be sure to stick around after the game for the 5th Quarter Battle of the Bands. Enjoy the show as the Marching Marauders of Central State and the Quiet Storm of Lane College face off in a musical showdown.

Learn more about this post-game tradition here.

 

Support Local Black Owned Businesses

Want to keep the pride going? Be sure to check out some of Rochester’s Black owned businesses while you’re in the area.

If you’re in the mood for a beer during your visit, head to Red, White, & Brew Rochester on State Street (just half a mile from the Rochester Community Sports Complex). This local favorite is a tap and tasting room that focuses on serving craft beverages from wineries, breweries, and distilleries in the Finger Lakes and New York State.

Legacy Wine Bar is another great spot to visit if wine is more your speed. This wine bar features live jazz and provides a place for friends to come together, relax, and enjoy some delicious sips and treats in an upscale and welcoming environment.

In the mood for some shopping? Mansawear on Park Avenue is a can’t-miss! Offering beautiful custom-made Ghanaian (West Africa) clothing, this boutique puts care and precision into everything they do.

Rochester is also home to several delicious Black owned restaurants and coffee shops, including Island Wraps for authentic Caribbean eats, Livie’s Jamaican Restaurant for Jamaican cuisine, Equal Grounds for a caffeine pick me up, and Nothing Bundt Cakes to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Explore even more Rochester, NY Black owned businesses here.

 

FAQs

What is the gameday bag policy?

A 12 x 12 x 16 inch clear bag, a one gallon clear plastic bag, a 4.5 x 6.5 inch clutch purse, and a 3 x 4 inch clutch purse are approved bags that can be brought into the game. Medical bags/diaper bags are permitted and are subject to screening and approval upon entrance. Learn more here.

Where do I park?

Free parking and shuttle services are available at the High Falls Garage and Sister Cities Garage. $7 parking and shuttle services are available at Innovative Field Lot C. Handicap and accessible parking is available at Innovative Field Lot B. Parking pass required for handicap parking.

Where should I stay?

Find a list of nearby hotels here.

What items should I leave at home?

The following are items that will not be allowed into the arena

  • Outside food/beverage
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Cans/glass bottles
  • Bags (not compliant with bag policy)
  • Horns/noisemakers
  • Laser pointers
  • Pets
  • Umbrellas
  • Chairs
  • Banners
  • Weapons, including firearms, knives, stun guns, pepper spray/mace, or any other item deemed dangerous but security.

 

Visit the website to learn more and be sure to share your Frederick Douglass HBCU Football Classic fun with us using #VisitROC!