PEPSI® National Battle of the Bands Expands to The Palm Beaches During MLK Weekend 2026
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Posted By: Reginald Culpepper on September 24, 2025 The Pepsi National Battle of the Bands (NBOTB), a premier Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) marching band showcase, is expanding its footprint with the launch of a new event in The Palm Beaches, taking place January 16–18, 2026, over Martin Luther King, Jr. Weekend at FAU Stadium in Boca Raton. "We're proud to introduce The Palm Beaches as the next chapter in our growing series of NBOTB events," said Derek Webber, Executive Producer and Creator of the National Battle of the Bands. "This is not a replacement for our Houston event — it's a powerful expansion. South Florida offers an incredible opportunity to bring the energy of HBCU culture to a new region, and we're thrilled to partner with institutions equally committed to celebrating legacy, education, and excellence." This inaugural Palm Beaches edition marks the first time the Pepsi National Battle of the Bands will be held in South Florida, offering a unique opportunity to celebrate music, culture, and legacy in one of Florida's most dynamic coastal destinations. This new showcase is in addition to NBOTB's flagship event in Houston, Texas, which will continue as the brand's anchor production. Presented by Webber Marketing & Consulting, in partnership with The Palm Beaches, Florida Atlantic University, and Palm Beach State College, the 2026 NBOTB: Palm Beaches Edition is expected to draw thousands of HBCU alumni, families, and fans for a high-energy weekend experience that blends culture, education, and community celebration. "We are honored to welcome the Pepsi National Battle of the Bands to The Palm Beaches for the very first time," said Emanuel Perry, Executive Director of Palm Beach County's Tourist Development Council. "The Palm Beaches is a globally recognized destination that invites everyone to experience our culture, lifestyle, and amenities. Hosting this inspiring event during Martin Luther King, Jr. Weekend is a powerful way to spotlight those ideals through music, tradition, and community." "This event will be the largest and most impactful event taking place in South Florida," said George Linley, Executive Director of Palm Beach County's Sports Commission. "The event blends culture, competition, music, and the unrivaled talent of HBCUs Marching Bands in creating an enormous stage of family fun for our local community, while also making an enormous economic and tourism impact for our local economy." Founded to showcase the excellence of HBCU marching bands while raising scholarship support for the schools they represent, NBOTB has become a nationally recognized platform that blends entertainment with education, heritage, and empowerment. Bethune-Cookman University's Marching Wildcats will be one of the participating bands. The full lineup of participating bands and performers will be revealed in Fall 2025 at a live media event; details forthcoming. Ticket sales and travel packages will launch in tandem with that announcement. For updates, event announcements, and exclusive content, visit www.nationalbattleofthebands.com and join our email list. Follow @NationalBattleoftheBands on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, and @NationalBOTB on X (formerly Twitter). About National Battle of the Bands The National Battle of the Bands' (NBOTB) mission is to enhance the exposure of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), their marching bands, and the important roles they play in educating aspiring musicians and developing future leaders. Event organizers have generated $2.1 million in scholarships for the participating colleges and universities to date. www.nationalbattleofthebands.com If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Reginald Culpepper
President, Fulfillment and Web Services, HBCUCONNECT Clark Atlanta University class of 1998 Member Since September 2000 |
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