GALLERY – Organizers, city representatives, sponsors and community leaders gathered at the Visit JXN Welcome Center for a press conference ahead of the 2026 HBCU Labor Day Classic: Battle of the Bands

On Aug. 21st, organizers, city representatives, sponsors and community leaders gathered at the Visit JXN Welcome Center for a press conference ahead of the 2026 HBCU Labor Day Classic: Battle of the Bands. Presented by Renasant Bank, the press conference featured updates on this year’s event, the official band lineup, community partnerships and plans for the upcoming showcase. The HBCU Labor Day Classic returns to Jackson on Sunday, September 6th, at Veterans Memorial Stadium, bringing together HBCU marching bands, music, culture and community for the Labor Day weekend celebration. The event is expected to draw thousands of visitors to Jackson and highlight the city as a destination for HBCU culture and entertainment. (Advocate Photos: Joshua Martin)