Mayor Parker announces weeklong events ahead of HBCU Classic in Philadelphia

Mayor Cherelle Parker announced weeklong events leading up to the return and expansion of the HBCU Classic in South Philadelphia at a press conference on Tuesday afternoon.

The Delaware State Hornets are set to face the Norfolk State Spartans on Oct. 31 at Lincoln Financial Field. The matchup will again feature the two programs led by former Eagles stars DeSean Jackson of Delaware State and Michael Vick of Norfolk State.

Both are entering their second seasons as head coaches.

The weekend begins Oct. 30 with CIAA action between the Lincoln University Lions and the Virginia Union University Panthers.

Lincoln, the nation's first degree-granting historically Black college and university, is located in Chester County and is the alma mater of Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker.

Parker announced that HBCU Week will lead up to the football games beginning Oct. 26. The week will include an appearance by The Breakfast Club, a performance by rap icon Ludacris and a Battle of the Bands.