At Florida A&M University, Be Out Day is more than an event. It is a tradition. Each spring, students gather on campus for one of the most anticipated HBCU experiences of the year. In 2026, that tradition continues with music, food, and community at the center of it all.
This year’s Be Out Day will feature performances from Bunna B and Fly Boi Keno, adding to the excitement surrounding the mid-semester celebration.
Student Government Association President Zayla Bryant shared her enthusiasm.
“I’ve been working diligently with the Be Out Day Committee to create an experience that will be an everlasting memory for the spring semester.”
A Unique HBCU Tradition Unlike Any Other
Be Out Day holds a special place in HBCU culture.
Unlike Homecoming, which is high-energy and fast-paced, or Commencement, which is formal and reflective, Be Out Day offers something different.
It is a moment to slow down.
Students gather outdoors, enjoy music, share food, and spend time together. It is what many simply call a “vibe.”
The atmosphere captures what makes Florida A&M University unique — connection, culture, and community.
The History Behind FAMU Be Out Day
Before it became the large-scale event it is today, Be Out Day started as something much smaller.
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the event was known as “Fun Day.” It was created by Colonel Bernard Hendricks, then director of student activities.
“It was almost like his personal barbecue,” said Marvin Greene. “He literally cooked the food himself.”
After Hendricks’ passing, student leaders reimagined the event in 1992. Under SGA President Rod Stovall and his leadership team, the gathering was renamed “Be Out Day.”
From that point on, the tradition grew.
“It went from ‘Fun Day’ to ‘Be Out Day.’ It created a life of its own,” Greene said.
Be Out Day 2026 Focuses on Experience and Impact
Today, Be Out Day continues to evolve while staying true to its roots.
Christian Aristilde, chief operating officer of Winners Circle, helped bring this year’s entertainment lineup together. He emphasized the importance of creating lasting memories.
“It’s not simply about putting artists on a stage. It’s about the experience and how it brings people together.”
That focus shapes every part of the event, from music to atmosphere.
“At Winners Circle, everything we do is intentional. We want students to remember this moment for years to come.”
A Mid-Semester Break HBCU Students Look Forward To
Be Out Day also serves an important purpose for students.
It comes at a time when academic pressure is high. As a result, it gives students a chance to relax and recharge before finals.
Bryan Smith, associate vice president for Student Affairs, explained its importance.
“Historically, it’s a chance to decompress after working hard. It’s a time to celebrate and be rewarded.”
Students can enjoy games, food, music, and time with friends — all while taking a break from the demands of the semester.
Food, Music, and Community Define the Experience
One thing that has never changed is the atmosphere.
Be Out Day still features a wide variety of food vendors, including barbecue, seafood, and classic campus favorites.
“I like the food,” Smith said. “We’ve got vendors from all over. It’s just a great time.”
Over the years, the event has also attracted major performers, including FAMU alumna K. Michelle and artist Jacquees.
Each year builds on the last, making the experience bigger and more memorable.
A Tradition That Extends Beyond Campus
The impact of Be Out Day goes far beyond Florida A&M University.
What started on campus has grown into a nationwide tradition. Alumni now host Be Out Day-style events in cities like Atlanta, Dallas, Miami, and Houston.
“That speaks to how influential that time was,” Greene said. “Alumni are recreating it across the country.”
This expansion shows how deeply the tradition resonates with the FAMU community.
