NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Local leaders met at the Caesar's Superdome to discuss the final days leading up to this year's Bayou Classic. It's the 51st year Southern University and Grambling State University will face off in the dome in front of thousands. "It's not just a game," said Congressman Troy Carter. "It's a tradition, a celebration of resilience, rivalry and an unyielding determination of two extraordinary institutions. Orpheuscapade headliner, monarch announced for Orpheus 2025 The game draws in more than 250,000 visitors. Officials expect the economic impact will be huge. "As much as all of our benefits, our businesses benefit from this. Our Black-owned businesses especially, look forward to things like Bayou Classic, Essence on the calendar. It's a time that they can count on and rely on that business," said Kevin Ferguson with New Orleans & Company. To help kick off the big game, the week ahead of the match-up will be filled with events. On Nov. 28, a Thanksgiving Day parade is set to roll through the streets of downtown. Steve Gleason recovering after ‘traumatic accident’ "While the economics are critical, what's really important also is that social and community impact. Beyond the dollars and the stats, Bayou Classic is a vital part of who we are as a city," said Ferguson. On Friday at 6 p.m., Battle of the Bands and Greek Show will be back in the Superdome for fans to rock out ahead of the big match. Tickets are required and can be purchased from the Caesar's Superdome website. "On behalf of the city of New Orleans, we say welcome, we know the economic impact runs deep. We say thank you," said New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts Gilbert makes clutch layup, steal as No. 7 LSU beats Washington 68-67 in the Bahamas Haliburton scores 34 and delivers key plays in the clutch to send Pacers past Pelicans 114-110 Frying a turkey? Two Jefferson Parish spots will collect your used oil Got that skibidi rizz? Google data shows the most searched slang words in Louisiana Deadline for Louisiana businesses to apply for Small Business Administration disaster loan coming up