John A. Merritt Classic 2026 • Nashville, Tennessee

August 29, 2026

Get ready, HBCU fans as Nashville turns into TIGER TOWN on the weekend of August 29! The Tigers of JSU and the Tigers of TSU clash in one of the most anticipated HBCU football matchups of the year as the legendary rivalry returns to the field. Join fellow alumni, students, family, and fans for an unforgettable weekend of football, fellowship, and Tiger pride at the 2026 John A. Merritt Classic featuring the Jackson State Tigers versus the Tennessee State Tigers.

Let us handle the details while you focus on cheering on the Blue & White. Our exclusive travel packages are designed to give you a stress-free and exciting game weekend in the heart of downtown Nashville.

Your Package Includes:

🏨 Two-Night Stay at the Grand Hyatt Nashville
Enjoy luxury accommodations at one of Nashville's premier downtown hotels. Located just minutes from Broadway, entertainment venues, restaurants, and major attractions, the Grand Hyatt provides the perfect home base for your game weekend.

🏈 Game Ticket to the John A. Merritt Classic

Your package includes admission to the highly anticipated 2026 John A. Merritt Classic featuring the Jackson State Tigers versus the Tennessee State Tigers. Join thousands of passionate HBCU football fans as these historic programs renew one of the most exciting rivalries in college football. Experience the energy, traditions, marching bands, cheerleaders, and game-day atmosphere that make HBCU football unlike anything else. Simply arrive, cheer, and enjoy the game—we've taken care of the details for you.

🚌 Roundtrip Shuttle Transportation to the Game
Skip the hassle of parking and traffic. We'll provide convenient roundtrip transportation between the hotel and the stadium so you can arrive ready to cheer on Jackson State.

🎉 Exclusive Rooftop Meet & Greet Event
Kick off the weekend with fellow Jackson State supporters at our private rooftop gathering. Connect with alumni, friends, and fans while enjoying great views of downtown Nashville, music, networking, and Tiger spirit.

🎁 TSU vs JSU Swag Bag
Every guest will receive a special swag bag filled with game-day goodies and commemorative items to help you represent Jackson State throughout the weekend.

Why Attend?

The John A. Merritt Classic has long been one of the premier HBCU football events in the country, bringing together proud traditions, passionate fan bases, and unforgettable moments. With the rivalry renewed between Jackson State and Tennessee State, this year's matchup promises to be electric.

Whether you're an alum, current student, family member, or simply a loyal JSU or TSU fan, this is your opportunity to be part of a historic weekend while experiencing the excitement of Nashville.

Nashville Awaits

While you're in Music City, explore world-famous Broadway, enjoy incredible Southern cuisine, visit iconic attractions, and experience the vibrant culture that makes Nashville one of America's most popular destinations.

Don't Miss Out!

Space is limited and demand for this rivalry weekend is expected to be high. Reserve your package today and join us as we travel to Nashville to support Jackson State in the return of the John A. Merritt Classic.

Pack your Blue & White. Bring your Tiger pride. Let's take over Nashville! 🐅💙🤍

---CANCELLATION & NO REFUND POLICY---

By submitting your reservation and payment, you acknowledge and agree to the following terms and conditions:

ALL PAYMENTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.

Due to contractual obligations with hotels, transportation providers, event venues, and other suppliers, no refunds will be issued for cancellations, no-shows, missed departures, schedule conflicts, personal emergencies, weather conditions, sporting event changes, travel delays, or any other reason.

This policy applies to:
• Deposits
• Partial payments
• Final payments
• Add-on purchases
• Processing fees
• Transportation fees
• Event-related fees

Guests who cancel their reservation will forfeit all monies paid.

Reservations may be transferred to another traveler upon written approval from Blessed To Travel, subject to supplier restrictions, availability, and any applicable name-change fees.

Transfer requests must be submitted in writing by email no later than 30 days prior to departure.

Blessed To Travel strongly recommends that all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance to protect their investment against unforeseen circumstances, including illness, injury, family emergencies, travel interruptions, and other covered events. See the link below:

Travel Insurance => https://blessedtotravel.com/get-travel-insurance/ 

In the event that the football game is rescheduled, relocated, modified, or canceled by the organizers, Blessed To Travel will not be responsible for refunds of any portion of the travel package. Any credits, refunds, or accommodations will be subject solely to the policies of the applicable suppliers and event organizers.

By making a payment toward this trip, you certify that you have read, understand, and agree to this Cancellation and No Refund Policy.