First Time at the Classic

They say there’s a first time for everything, and from November 27th to the 29th I got to experience my first Bayou Classic. When first hearing about it I wasn’t sure what to think. Growing up with a family full of Gramblinites I had always heard about the great rivalry between Southern and Grambling but I’ve now got to experience it first hand as a proud Jaguar.
Upon arrival I could tell that the city of New Orleans completely transforms every year that the classic is held. Not only does New Orleans make the necessary adjustments for the events, but it is the perfect place for the events to be held. The food, music, people, and attractions of New Orleans make it the most ideal location for thousands of alumni and students to gather at an event of such intensity. Not to mention the world famous Bourbon Street which is always prepared for a great time. It seemed as if the streets were filled at all times of the day and night. All that was visible was a sea of Southern blue, and Grambling red across the entire city. Walking down canal street you could see everyone out “repping” their respective school with smiles as wide as the Mississippi river. It was very clear that people take great pride in supporting both schools, which speaks to the strength and prestige of each school.
The first affair I got to experience was the Battle of the Bands and I wasn’t disappointed. Tens of thousands of people crowded into the Superdome to listen to two great bands go head to head. They did not announce a winner, but it was apparent that Southern’s band outperformed their opponent in my opinion. The performance of the classics always appeals to all ages, and leaves people in a positive mood. After the battle was over I took to the streets and experienced the great culture of New Orleans. The food was simply outstanding and lived up to its reputation. There’s no better place to go and fill up your stomach.
The next day was even better and more adventurous than the previous one. We won’t talk about the game, we all know how that ended, but nonetheless the festivities afterwards made up for it. Walking down Bourbon was an experience that I will forever remember.
Never have I seen so many people on one small street all together just trying to have a good time. Of course with that many people there’s bound to be a few altercations, but in my opinion that did nothing but make it a little more exciting. Going from club to club and dancing all night was some of the most fun I’ve had in awhile and I would definitely recommend the experience to anyone.
All in all it was a great weekend full of new encounters that I definitely want to go back to next year. Hopefully next year the Jaguars will be able to reclaim the throne and make the weekend just a little bit sweeter.