CIAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament
Join us Feb. 24 – Mar. 1, 2026 & in 2027-2029!
The CIAA is the nation’s oldest historically Black athletic conference for both Men’s and Women’s Basketball. The annual tournament offers so much more than just college basketball — It offers free, educational events for the community, Fan Fest at the Baltimore Convention Center and more. It’s a tradition that honors Black history and culture, celebrates legendary athletes both past and present, and continues to play a pivotal role in shaping diversity, equity and inclusion on and off the court. Baltimore’s prime location on the East Coast is easy to get to via train, plane or car, and once you’re here, there’s plenty to do all within walking distance of the CIAA Tournament and events. Tickets for the 2026 Tournament are on sale now.
How to Get to Baltimore for CIAA
Community Events
Join us for this series of free community events during the CIAA Tournament to learn more about topics like physical and mental health, technology and finance.
Health and Mental Wellness Summit, Feb. 26
The Health and Mental Wellness Summit offers expert‑led discussions and workshops centered around mental health, nutrition and wellness in the African American community.
Tech Summit House, Feb. 27
Join national tech brands and local startups at the Tech Summit House for dynamic discussions on digital equity, career growth and the innovations redefining Baltimore’s rapidly growing tech scene.
Money Moves: Financial Summit, Feb. 28
Learn real strategies from Baltimore’s top business and financial experts at the Money Moves Financial Summit to strengthen, scale and sustain your small business.
Youth Sports Clinic, Feb. 21
The Youth Sports Clinic is a fun, high-energy clinic for young athletes to develop skills in basketball, cheer or flag football. Plus, parents receive guidance on supporting development both on and off the field.
CIAA Events
Things to Do During CIAA
Whether you’re traveling from another state, or coming in from the suburbs, we’re thrilled to welcome you to Baltimore. We’re a vibrant, diverse city with a rich history and creative culture, and one-of-a-kind experiences lie around every corner. While you’re here, check out some award-winning restaurants, explore our famous monuments and museums, and discover more than 250 neighborhoods.
Support Black-Owned Businesses
Discover Black museums, restaurants, shops & cultural attractions in Baltimore.
Baltimore is home to a rich Black history & culture, and it’s easy to explore it all with the BoP Pass! In addition to coupons for discounted admission to Baltimore museums and special offers from local businesses, the pass highlights the many free locales in which you can deepen your knowledge of famous African American figures like Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman and the celebrities that once occupied Pennsylvania Avenue Black Arts & Entertainment District. Explore cultural institutions and landmarks like the National Great Blacks In Wax Museum, the Frederick Douglass-Issac Myers Maritime Park Museum, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History and Culture and savor the flavors of Baltimore’s Black-owned restaurants.
The pass’s search filters and GPS monitoring make it easy for you to find busineses and cultural attractions near your hotel. Every time you check in at a destination, you’ll earn points that you can redeem for exclusive prizes. Get the BoP Pass today!
Want to find more Black-owned businesses? Access our digital Black-owned business directory, which features Black-owned restaurants, stores, cultural attractions and more!
Black-Owned Restaurant Tour 2026
From February 21 to March 1, the Black-Owned Restaurant tour invites you to explore the rich flavors of Baltimore.
We have partnered with the city’s best local establishments to bring you an exclusive lineup of happy hours, brunches, lunches and late-night eats. Whether you are in town for the game or a local looking to support our vibrant community, there is a seat at the table for you.
Key Points of Interest
Map your itinerary around Baltimore and see how close your hotel is to the action!
How to Get Around
Utilize the FREE CIAA shuttle route to get around town!
Shuttles run Wed., Feb. 25 through Sat., Feb. 28 from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Routes stop at hotels, CFG Bank Arena, the Baltimore Convention Center and Power Plant Live*
*Power Plant Live stop available Thursday–Saturday only
Utilize this free shuttle service to get around during tournament week.
Thank You to Our Local Contributors
Thank You to Our Media Sponsors
