A Tradition Returns. Generations Reconnect: Fountain City Classic Parade Comes Back November 7

After a three-year hiatus, the parade brings HBCU pride, marching bands, and family tradition back to the streets of Columbus and Phenix City

Before the rivals take the field, their families will come together in the streets of Columbus, GA. On Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., the Fountain City Classic Parade returns after a three-year hiatus, reconnecting two cities, two states, and generations of Albany State University Golden Rams and Fort Valley State University Wildcats.

Marching bands, royal courts, student leaders, alumni, and community organizations will fill the route with the sounds, colors, and traditions that make the Classic a gathering place for families. For returning supporters, the parade offers a chance to renew a familiar ritual. For young spectators, it offers a close-up view of college life, leadership, and HBCU culture.

“The Fountain City Classic has always brought Albany State, Fort Valley State, and our host community together around a shared commitment to education and opportunity,” said Dean Calvin Smyre, Chairman of the Fountain City Classic. “The parade carries that connection into our streets, where generations can celebrate together. We are proud to welcome this tradition back and share it with the young people who will carry it forward.”

The parade return also reflects a calendar shift. When the Classic fell on the 2nd weekend of November, the FCC host committee chose to give precedence to the community’s veterans observances, honoring the men and women whose service and sacrifice have meant so much to us all. With this year’s Classic taking place on the first weekend, the committee is delighted to restore the parade while preserving that time to honor our veterans.
The route begins on Broad Street in Phenix City, Alabama, crosses the Chattahoochee River via the 13th Street Bridge, and continues down Broadway to 9th Street in downtown Columbus, Georgia. That crossing gives the celebration a fitting backdrop: communities connected by a bridge, coming together through a shared tradition.
“You hear the drums, see the royal courts, and hear someone in the crowd call out, ‘That’s my school!’ Those moments are part of what families look forward to at the Classic,” said Robbie Branscomb, Executive Director of the Fountain City Classic.

“Our host committee is elated to bring the parade back. We want longtime supporters to return to the route and new families to experience the pride, excitement, and sense of belonging for themselves.”

Schools, businesses, civic groups, and community organizations are invited to participate. General entry is $35 per vehicle or marching unit. Registration and completed, signed parade waivers must be submitted by Sunday, October 25, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
Volunteers are also invited to help welcome participants, assist with lineup, and support parade operations. Volunteer registration closes Monday, October 26, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
Visit fountaincityclassic.com for registration and event information.
Spectators are encouraged to bring the family, wear their school colors, and come ready to cheer. Those unable to attend can watch live on the Fountain City Classic’s Facebook and YouTube channels or through participating media partners’ streaming platforms.
The parade opens game day for the 36th Annual Fountain City Classic, with Fort Valley State University (visitor) and Albany State University (home) facing off at 2:00 p.m. at A.J. McClung Memorial Stadium.
ABOUT THE FOUNTAIN CITY CLASSIC, INC. Founded in 1989, the Fountain City Classic (FCC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that hosts the annual football game between two historically black universities (HBCUs) within the University System of Georgia, Albany State University and Fort Valley State University. As one of South Georgia’s premier events, the FCC has provided scholarship funds to both institutions and awarded scholarships to students from Columbus attending various higher learning institutions. Drawing an estimated 45,000 spectators to South Commons and A.J. McClung Memorial Stadium in Columbus, GA, the FCC has become a significant event in the region. The 36th Annual Classic will take place on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.
Major Sponsors of the Fountain City Classic: Georgia Power Company, Columbus Sports and Events Council/VisitColumbusGA, Pinnacle Financial Partners + Synovus, Aflac, Atlanta Falcons, Chick-fil-A Foundation, Delta Air Lines, Georgia Lottery Corp, The Home Depot, The Coca-Cola Company/Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, Liberty Utilities, Morehouse School of Medicine, Georgia Pacific Foundation and Georgia Access