How one annual college football game has shaped South Florida | Opinion
In a region where vibrant energy and rich history intertwine, the Orange Bowl is a testament to the enduring spirit of its Miami origins.
More than just an annual football game, it’s a cornerstone of our community, a tradition that has shaped our identity for nearly a century.
From its humble beginnings during the Great Depression to its present-day status as a premier college football event, the Orange Bowl has been a catalyst for growth, tourism, and a sense of unity that transcends the sport itself.
Almost a century later, the Orange Bowl is more relevant than ever.
As we witness the 2024-25 college football season, the Orange Bowl continues to play a vital role in the local and national landscape.
On Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025, the College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Capital One Orange Bowl will take place at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.
The winner of this game will produce one of the two teams that will compete in the College Football Playoff National Championship. That’s not all.
The following year, the College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at the Capital One Orange Bowl will be played on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026.
Then, just 18 days later, on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, Hard Rock Stadium will be the site of the 2026 College Football Playoff National Championship to culminate the 2025 season, with the Orange Bowl Committee joining government, tourism and corporate leaders to spearhead the host committee efforts for college football’s premier event.
Since its founding in 1935, the Orange Bowl has remained steadfast and consistent with its mission of generating tourism for South Florida through an annual football game and supporting events, enhancing the South Florida economy.
And through the many decades, thanks to the steady determination of community leadership, the evolution of modern-day postseason college football has included our South Florida community every step of the way, from the Bowl Coalition in the early 1990s to the Bowl Alliance, to the Bowl Championship Series, and to the four-team College Football Playoff that preceded the new 12-team playoff.
Since the CFP era began in 2014, the total economic output and media exposure value generated for South Florida through national semifinal games hosted by the Capital One Orange Bowl has been estimated to reach over $750 million.
Beyond the football field, the Orange Bowl stages year-round events with a variety of genres ranging from sports to wellness to arts and culture. Orange Bowl has also invested millions in youth sports, education, community engagement programs and legacy gift projects through our Orange Bowl Cares initiatives.
From renovating parks and public-school media centers to providing opportunities for youth athletes, the Orange Bowl’s impact can be seen throughout the tri-county region. As South Florida continues to grow and evolve, the Orange Bowl remains a constant, a symbol of economic development and a lasting commitment to the community.
The city of Miami was founded in 1896. Shortly after that, the Orange Bowl was created in 1935, with its roots originating in the 1933 Palm Festival. Miami is now 128 years old, with a supporting organization soon to round the corner toward 100.
The Orange Bowl is more than just a game; it’s longstanding history that has shaped South Florida for generations. As we embark upon our 91st year, we celebrate the countless individuals who have contributed to its success.
From the participants and fans to the media and volunteers to the members of yesterday and today, their dedication and passion have made the Orange Bowl a cherished tradition.
Let us continue to honor their legacy by supporting the Orange Bowl and its positive impact on our community.
Eric Poms is the CEO of the Orange Bowl Committee.
This story was originally published October 30, 2024 at 12:09 PM.