Pepsi National Battle of the Bands Returns to Palm Beaches MLK Weekend

The 2027 Pepsi National Battle of the Bands (NBOTB) will take place in The Palm Beaches, Florida, from January 14-16, coinciding with the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend. This three-day event aims to celebrate the culture, music, education, and community engagement associated with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

Organizers have announced the participating HBCU marching bands and the schedule of planned events. The main competition is slated for Saturday, January 16, at Flagler Credit Union Stadium, with gates opening at 1:30 p.m. and the show starting at 3 p.m. Tickets are currently on sale.

Bands confirmed to participate so far include Alabama State University, Bethune-Cookman University, Edward Waters University, Florida A&M University, and Miles College. Additional band announcements are expected.

The weekend will also feature free community events, including the NBOTB Cares Community Service Initiative on Thursday and the Emerging Experience Entrepreneurship Conference on Friday. Saturday includes the HBCU College & Career Fair, connecting students with higher education and career opportunities, followed by a Fan Experience with music and other entertainment.