News Summary
The recent FAMU Homecoming 2023 brought over 50,000 visitors to Tallahassee, resulting in a significant boost for local businesses. Restaurants and vendors reported substantial increases in sales, particularly during catering events for FAMU’s football team and a concert featuring T-Pain. Business owners highlighted the importance of such events for economic growth and community exposure. This year’s theme, ‘Eternal World Tour,’ included various festivities and a traditional parade, although overshadowed by the suspension of a long-time band announcer due to an inappropriate comment.
TALLAHASSEE, FL
The recent FAMU Homecoming 2023 attracted more than 50,000 visitors to Tallahassee, creating a substantial boost to the local economy. Businesses throughout the area reported significant increases in sales, marking this event as one of the busiest weekends of the year for local establishments.
Restaurants and vendors experienced a surge in business as they catered to the influx of visitors. The CEO of Pinappétit noted the remarkable economic impact during Homecoming Week. He indicated that this period is the busiest time of the year for his business, which included catering services for FAMU’s football team and organizing a sold-out concert featuring T-Pain at the Civic Center, which saw approximately 8,000 tickets sold.
Adrian Kershaw, owner of Nach’Yo Nachos, estimated that between 50,000 and 80,000 attendees flocked to the event, leading to high sales of nachos and activities on the streets. Tamara Tatum, co-owner of Street Eats, reported an increase in sales by 60-70% during the Homecoming weekend, prompting her business to quickly replenish stock to meet the demand.
Local business owners emphasized the importance of such events for economic growth and exposure for Tallahassee. In collaboration with city and county officials, surveys are being conducted among both visitors and vendors to gather feedback aimed at improving future Homecoming celebrations.
This year, FAMU’s Homecoming theme was “Eternal World Tour.” The festivities began with the crowning of FAMU’s Homecoming King, Queen, and Royal Court during the Coronation and Coronation Ball. Multiple attractions included food truck fairs, movie nights called “Screen on the Green,” and the lively FAMFEST, which featured vendors and musical performances.
The traditional Homecoming parade took place on the morning of the football game against Alcorn State, showcasing marching bands and vibrant community participation. The football game, held at 4 p.m. on October 18, was accompanied by extensive tailgating events for attendees.
Despite the successful events, this year’s Homecoming was marred by the suspension of seasoned band announcer Joe Bullard. His suspension was a result of an inappropriate remark that drew widespread attention. The Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) denied an appeal for lifting his suspension, which prevents him from announcing during the Homecoming game. This disciplinary action included a public reprimand and will remain in effect until at least after October 11.
In Bullard’s absence, Slater Thorpe assumed the role of announcer. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity while acknowledging Bullard’s significant impact on the FAMU community as a source of inspiration.
Overall, FAMU Homecoming 2023 not only provided a festive and celebratory environment for attendees but also played a crucial role in stimulating local economic activity, underscoring the event’s importance to the Tallahassee community.
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Additional Resources
- WTXL: FAMU Homecoming Brings Big Economic Boost
- FAMU Athletics: Know Before You Go for FAMU Homecoming
- Vogue: Celebrating School Spirit and Style at FAMU Homecoming
- Tallahassee.com: 8 Ways to Get in on the Florida A&M Homecoming Fun
- WTXL: What You Need to Know as Weekend Festivities Begin
- Wikipedia: FAMU Homecoming
- Google Search: FAMU Homecoming
- Google Scholar: FAMU Homecoming
- Encyclopedia Britannica: FAMU Homecoming
- Google News: FAMU Homecoming
Author: STAFF HERE TALLAHASSEE WRITER
The TALLAHASSEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETallahassee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tallahassee, Leon County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Springtime Tallahassee, Tallahassee Jazz & Blues Festival, and LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Big Bend, plus leading businesses in education, healthcare, and insurance that power the local economy such as Florida State University, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, and Capital Health Plan. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
