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Reviews

"If you want to talk about urban education, student-athletes, and a rivalry with rich tradition and history, you can say nothing else but the Poly City rivalry.”

Nick Mosby

Baltimore City Council President

Baltimore Polytechnic Institute

The Tradition
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THE TRADITION

Since the first time these two historical football teams took the field for battle in 1889, this rivalry has been nothing short of exciting, intense, and full of fanfare.

There have been close games, blowout games, games riddled with controversy, decade-long win streaks, decade-long losing streaks, and some big names in sports and leadership to come from the annual classic. 

The marching band battle, the war chants from students and alumni in the stands, and the pride of bragging rights make this long-standing rivalry one of the greatest in U.S. public school history. 

When was the last time you attended the City -Poly football classic? It's an experience, trust us

WHY YOU'LL LOVE CITY POLY FEST

A time-honored tradition of Homecoming week, the City-Poly Fest is an engaging experience for alumni of all ages.

 

Recapturing our beloved high school experiences by coming together for food, fun, fellowship, and music - this outdoor event fosters the spirit of CITY FOREVER and POLY PRIDE, before and during the Homecoming football game, and instills long-lasting memories for all participants. 

Baltimore City has a population of over 600,000 residents. Whether born and bred resident or a transplant, there is one annual event that is sure to bring the city together in the spirit of rivalry, passion, and tradition. The City vs Poly Annual Football Classic is the third oldest football rivalry in the United States and the oldest in the state of Maryland. Dating back to 1889, the Baltimore City College and Baltimore Polytechnic Institute established their rivalry on the historic grounds of Clifton Park in East Baltimore.
 

The Annual Football Classic now boasts a prestigious 130-year history that began in the end of the 19th century and is still celebrated by the city of Baltimore to this day. Through years of victories and defeats from both schools emerged influential alumni, many of whom became influential leaders in all facets of society. Various professional NFL players, NFL executives, mayors, writers, educators, legislators, scientists, and university presidents were born in these two prestigious schools.

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GIVING
BACK

Taking the festivities beyond the gridiron, CityPoly Fest has continued the tradition of giving back. This year, the CityPoly Fest Knight/Engineer Scholarship will be awarded to two graduating seniors from both institutions totaling $100,000.

 

Each recipient will receive a $25,000 check to attend a Historically Black College or University. In addition, Yard Fest will provide exposure for students to gain exposure to Historically Black Colleges and Universities, while the Homecoming Suite will provide an opportunity for alumni entrepreneurs to highlight their businesses and products. 

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Upcoming Festivals

UPCOMING EVENTS

  • CityPoly Fest presents Two Schools. One Love.
    CityPoly Fest presents Two Schools. One Love.
    Thu, Oct 19
    Pimlico Race Track
    Oct 19, 2023, 2:23 AM
    Pimlico Race Track , 5201 Park Heights Ave. Baltimore, MD 21215
    Oct 19, 2023, 2:23 AM
    Pimlico Race Track , 5201 Park Heights Ave. Baltimore, MD 21215
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FAQs

FAQs

Where is CityPoly Fest being held?

CityPoly Fest will be held at Pimlico Race Track 5201 Park Heights Ave, Baltimore, MD  21215

What time is CityPoly Fest?

CityPoly Fest will take place on Saturday, October 28, 2023, from 10 am - 6 pm

Is there an age limit?

CityPoly Fest is a 21 and over event.

What food will be available at CityPoly Fest?

Guests can look forward to enjoying a variety of your favorite local Baltimore favorites as well as traditional festival foods.

Where can I park?

Onsite and overflow parking will be available. 

Will there be shuttles available for overflow parking?

Yes. Borden Transportation, LLC will provide shuttles from overflow parking to the CityPoly Fest site. 

What Can I  Bring?

You may bring your chair, coolers, and food to celebrate Homecoming. 

Alcohol, Grills, and tents are prohibited

Is CityPoly Fest a free event?

CityPoly Fest is a paid event. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Scholarship Funds of both Baltimore City College and Baltimore Polytechnic Institute.

Can I  Reserve a Tent? 

Class Tent Reservations are an added amenity for City and Poly Alum to allow space for us to celebrate with our fellow alum.

 

If you are interested in Tent Reservations please email citypolyfest@gmail.com 

What is your refund policy?

All ticket sales are final. There will be no reissues for lost or stolen tickets. The event is rain or shine.

Will there be security?

CityPoly Fest will have extensive security on site. If at any time during CityPoly Fest you need any assistance, look for a nearby security officer or CityPoly Fest Staff Member. 

CityPoly Fest COVID- 19 Policy

CityPoly Festival will take place at Pimlico Race Track, Baltimore's premier destination for horse racing and home of the Preakness Stakes. As an outdoor event we are following applicable public health guidelines. CityPoly Fest will follow all COVID19 protocols as dictated by the CDC, the State of Maryland and the City of Baltimore at the time of the event.

General Event Information

- We’re giving back! A portion of event proceeds to directly benefit the current student body of both Baltimore City College and Baltimore Polytechnic Institute. - Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to get event updates and information in real time - Valid ID is required. - Don’t go hungry! Our food vendors will be sure to have a variety of delicious food, and are ready to serve you. - Alcohol: Cash Bars will be available to guests on site. Intoxicated and unruly guests will be removed from the event without a refund. - Last Call is 45 minutes till the end of the event. We stop pouring alcohol at 30 minutes prior to the end of the event. - Re-Entry. You can come and go, just make sure you have your wristband.

Prohibited Items

- Weapons Of Any Kind - Drugs Or Drug Paraphernalia - Pets Or Other Animals (Service Animals allowed) - Umbrellas, Parasols, Or Hammocks - Outside alcohol - Large umbrellas, tents over 10 x 10 - Professional photo, video, or audio recording devices without prior approval - Drones - Large coolers - Glass containers - Illegal substances, drugs, or drug paraphernaila - Unauthorized vendors - Grills

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Sponsors & Partners

WORKING WITH THE BEST SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

We are deeply connected by the love of our alma maters, the current student body,  and the city of Baltimore.

We commit to curating events that uphold our tradition, create lanes to give back,  and celebrate our excellence.

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