Philadelphia will celebrate HBCU week in October

Philadelphia will celebrate the tradition, pageantry and excellence of Historically Black College and University football when four prominent programs take the field during One Philly HBCU Week 2026.

The weekend begins Friday, October 30, with Virginia Union University facing Lincoln University, Chester County’s HBCU. On Saturday, October 31, Delaware State University and Norfolk State University will meet in a highly anticipated rematch led by former Philadelphia Eagles teammates DeSean Jackson and Michael Vick.

Jackson, head coach of the Delaware State Hornets, and Vick, head coach of the Norfolk State Spartans, will return to the stadium where they once played together. Their teams’ matchup follows last year’s “Battle of the Legends,” which drew 47,266 fans to Lincoln Financial Field and brought national attention to the history, pride and culture of HBCU athletics.

The expanded two-game schedule is a partnership among the Philadelphia Eagles, Mayor Cherelle L. Parker and the City of Philadelphia. Organizers say One Philly HBCU Week will welcome students, alumni, families and fans from across the country while highlighting the traditions that make HBCU football a distinctive cultural experience.

“Lincoln Financial Field is thrilled to serve as the host site for two highly anticipated HBCU matchups this season,” said Frank Gumienny, senior vice president and chief operating officer of the Philadelphia Eagles. “In partnership with the City of Philadelphia, we look forward to hosting the programs, families, alumni, and fans for what will be a memorable One Philly HBCU Week at Lincoln Financial Field.”

Norfolk State will serve as the home team in Saturday’s game, while Lincoln will be the home team for Friday’s matchup.

Mayor Parker, a proud HBCU graduate, said the 2025 Delaware State–Norfolk State game demonstrated the enthusiasm surrounding HBCU athletics and created a strong foundation for an expanded celebration in 2026.

“Last year’s Delaware State-Norfolk State game was a tremendous success, drawing 47,266 fans and showcasing the excellence, pride, and tradition of HBCU athletics,” Parker said. “We are excited to build on that momentum through One Philly HBCU Week 2026.”

She added that Philadelphia looks forward to welcoming the participating teams and their supporters for a weekend reflecting the city’s spirit of unity: “One Philly. A United City.”

Tickets for both games will go on sale Wednesday, August 12, at 10 a.m. through Ticketmaster. Kickoff times and broadcast information will be announced later.

Additional event programming and fan experiences will be shared through Lincoln University’s and Norfolk State University’s official communication channels.