Celebration Bowl
2026

How to Buy Celebration Bowl 2026 Tickets

1. Browse Available Tickets: Click the event listing above to see all available seating options for the 2026 Celebration Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
2. Select Your Section: Choose from lower bowl, club level, or upper deck seating. Each section offers a great view of the action and the legendary halftime show.
3. Review All-In Pricing: Our displayed prices include all fees. Compare listings from multiple verified sellers to find the best value.
4. Complete Secure Checkout: All transactions are processed with buyer protection and verified seller authentication.
5. Receive Your Tickets: Tickets are delivered electronically or via the method specified by the seller.

2026 Celebration Bowl Event Details

• Event: 2026 Cricket Celebration Bowl (11th Edition)
• Matchup: MEAC Champion vs. SWAC Champion (Teams TBD)
• Date: Saturday, December 12, 2026
• Time: 12:00 PM ET (Expected)
• TV: ABC (Expected)
• Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium
• Address: 1 AMB Drive, Atlanta, GA 30313

What Is the Celebration Bowl?

The Celebration Bowl is the annual HBCU national championship game, matching the MEAC (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference) Champion against the SWAC (Southwestern Athletic Conference) Champion. Established in 2015, the bowl has become one of college football’s most unique and celebrated events, honoring HBCU excellence both on the field and through legendary halftime band performances that showcase the best of HBCU musical tradition.

Celebration Bowl History & Results

• Established: 2015
• All-Time Series: MEAC leads SWAC 7-3
• Most Titles: North Carolina A&T (4 championships)
• 2025 Champion: South Carolina State 40, Prairie View A&M 38 (4OT)
• 2024 Champion: Jackson State defeated South Carolina State
• Location: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta (since 2017)

2025 Celebration Bowl Game Summary

The 10th Celebration Bowl will be remembered as one of the greatest games in HBCU football history. South Carolina State trailed 21-0 at halftime against a dominant Prairie View A&M team before backup quarterback Ryan Stubblefield sparked a historic comeback. The Bulldogs scored three touchdowns in the third quarter to tie the game, then traded scores through regulation and multiple overtime periods before finally prevailing 40-38 on Stubblefield’s two-point conversion pass to Tyler Smith in the fourth overtime.

Key Statistics from the 2025 Celebration Bowl

• Final Score: South Carolina State 40, Prairie View A&M 38 (4OT)
• Offensive MVP: Ryan Stubblefield (SC State) – 234 passing yards, 2 TDs
• Defensive MVP: Brenyen Scott (SC State)
• Top Receiver: Jordan Smith (SC State) – 9 catches, 152 yards, 3 total TDs
• PVAMU QB Cameron Peters: 412 passing yards, 4 TDs
• PVAMU WR Andre Dennis: 131 receiving yards, 1 TD

About Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Mercedes-Benz Stadium provides the perfect setting for the Celebration Bowl. The state-of-the-art venue features a retractable roof ensuring comfortable conditions regardless of weather, a massive 360-degree halo video board, and renowned fan-friendly concession pricing ($2 hot dogs, $2 sodas, $5 beers) that makes gameday affordable for families.

Getting to Mercedes-Benz Stadium

• Address: 1 AMB Drive, Atlanta, GA 30313
• MARTA: Vine City or GWCC/CNN Center stations (Blue/Green Lines) – recommended for avoiding traffic
• From I-75/85: Exit at Martin Luther King Jr. Drive
• Parking: Multiple lots and garages surrounding the stadium; pre-purchase recommended
• Rideshare: Designated pickup/drop-off areas at Northside Drive and Andrew Young International Boulevard

Mercedes-Benz Stadium Policies

• Clear Bag Policy: Only clear bags (12" x 6" x 12") or small clutch purses (4.5" x 6.5") permitted
• No Re-Entry: Once you leave, you cannot re-enter
• Mobile Tickets: All tickets are mobile; have your phone charged
• Prohibited Items: Outside food/drinks, cameras with lenses over 3", umbrellas, selfie sticks

Band of the Year Championship

The Band of the Year National Championship takes place Friday, December 11, 2026 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, one day before the Celebration Bowl. The nation’s top Division I and Division II HBCU marching bands compete for the prestigious Band of the Year title in a showcase of musical excellence. The 2025 champions were Florida A&M’s Marching 100 (Division I) and Miles College’s Purple Marching Machine (Division II).

MEAC & SWAC Conference Information

• MEAC: meacsports.com – Member schools include South Carolina State, Howard, Morgan State, Norfolk State, Delaware State, and North Carolina Central
• SWAC: swac.org – Member schools include Jackson State, Prairie View A&M, Southern, Grambling State, Alabama A&M, and Alcorn State
• Celebration Bowl: Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions: Celebration Bowl 2026

When is the 2026 Celebration Bowl?

The 2026 Cricket Celebration Bowl is scheduled for Saturday, December 12, 2026 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Kickoff time is expected to be 12:00 PM ET, with the game broadcast on ABC.

Who is playing in the 2026 Celebration Bowl?

The 2026 Celebration Bowl will feature the MEAC Champion against the SWAC Champion. Teams will be determined during the 2026 college football season based on conference championship results. Check back as the season progresses for matchup updates.

What is the Celebration Bowl?

The Celebration Bowl is the HBCU national championship game, established in 2015 to crown a champion between the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). It celebrates HBCU football excellence and culture, featuring legendary halftime band performances.

Who won the 2025 Celebration Bowl?

South Carolina State defeated Prairie View A&M 40-38 in four overtimes on December 13, 2025. The Bulldogs overcame a 21-0 halftime deficit in the largest comeback in Celebration Bowl history. Backup QB Ryan Stubblefield was named Offensive MVP after leading the dramatic rally.

What is the all-time series record between MEAC and SWAC?

The MEAC leads the all-time Celebration Bowl series 7-3 after South Carolina State’s victory in 2025. North Carolina A&T holds the record for most Celebration Bowl titles with four championships.

How much are Celebration Bowl 2026 tickets?

Ticket prices vary by section and demand. Mercedes-Benz Stadium offers seating at various price points from upper deck to premium lower bowl sections. Our marketplace displays all-in pricing with no hidden fees, so you see the total cost upfront.

Where is the Celebration Bowl played?

The Celebration Bowl is played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. The state-of-the-art venue has hosted the game since 2017, providing a world-class setting for the HBCU national championship.

How do I get to Mercedes-Benz Stadium?

MARTA rail provides direct access via Vine City or GWCC/CNN Center stations on the Blue and Green Lines. The stadium is also accessible via I-75/85 with multiple parking options surrounding the venue. Rideshare pickup/dropoff is available at designated areas.

What is the Band of the Year Championship?

The Band of the Year National Championship is held the day before the Celebration Bowl (Friday, December 11, 2026) at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Top HBCU marching bands compete for Division I and Division II titles in a spectacular showcase of musical excellence.

Can I bring bags to Mercedes-Benz Stadium?

Mercedes-Benz Stadium enforces a clear bag policy. Only clear plastic bags no larger than 12" x 6" x 12" or small clutch purses no larger than 4.5" x 6.5" are permitted. Non-clear bags, backpacks, and purses larger than the specified size are prohibited.

What time do gates open for the Celebration Bowl?

Mercedes-Benz Stadium gates typically open 2-3 hours before kickoff for major events like the Celebration Bowl. For a 12:00 PM kickoff, expect gates to open around 9:00-10:00 AM. Check official Celebration Bowl communications for specific gate times.

Is the Celebration Bowl family-friendly?

Yes, the Celebration Bowl is a family-friendly event that celebrates HBCU culture and tradition. The affordable concession prices at Mercedes-Benz Stadium ($2 hot dogs, $2 sodas) make it accessible for families. The halftime band performances are entertaining for all ages.

What makes HBCU bowl games special?

HBCU bowl games like the Celebration Bowl combine elite football competition with legendary halftime band performances, creating a unique cultural celebration. The Battle of the Bands tradition and passionate fan bases make HBCU games unlike any other college football experience.

Is this an official Celebration Bowl ticket website?

No, we are an independent ticket resale marketplace, not affiliated with the Celebration Bowl, MEAC, SWAC, or Mercedes-Benz Stadium. We connect fans with verified sellers offering authentic tickets at competitive prices with all-in pricing and buyer protection.

Are Celebration Bowl tickets refundable?

Refund policies vary by seller on our marketplace. Most ticket sales are final, though some sellers may offer exchange options. Review the specific seller’s policies before completing your purchase. In the event of game cancellation, fans typically receive refunds from their point of purchase.

Get Your 2026 Celebration Bowl Tickets Today

Don’t miss the 11th annual HBCU national championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The Celebration Bowl brings together the best of HBCU football, legendary marching bands, and passionate fan bases for an unforgettable December Saturday in Atlanta. Browse the event listing above, select your preferred seating, and secure your tickets through our trusted resale marketplace. All prices include fees – no surprises at checkout!