2024 Celebration Bowl: Date, time, location, TV channel, history

The 2024 Celebration Bowl is set to showcase the pinnacle of HBCU football, featuring a matchup between the champions of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). This annual event not only highlights athletic excellence but also celebrates the rich cultural heritage of historically Black colleges and universities.

Game Details:

• Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024
• Time: 12:00 p.m. EST
• Location: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia
• Television: Broadcast live on ABC

The MEAC will be represented by South Carolina State University, which secured its spot by clinching the conference title with a decisive victory over Morgan State on November 16. The SWAC representative will be determined by the outcome of the SWAC Championship Game, featuring East Division champion Jackson State University against West Division champion Southern University.

Since its inception in 2015, the Celebration Bowl has served as a de facto national championship for HBCU football, with the MEAC currently leading the series against the SWAC with a 6-2 record. North Carolina A&T holds the most titles, with four victories to date.

Beyond the gridiron, the Celebration Bowl is a vibrant display of HBCU traditions, including dynamic halftime shows and spirited fan engagement. The event underscores the enduring legacy and contributions of HBCUs to American culture and education.

Complementing the game, the second annual Band of the Year National Championship will take place on Friday, December 13, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. This competition features top Division I and Division II HBCU bands vying for the prestigious title, adding a rich musical dimension to the weekend's celebrations.

For fans and alumni of HBCUs, the Celebration Bowl offers an opportunity to honor athletic prowess and cultural heritage, uniting communities in a shared celebration of excellence and tradition.