Crown City Cortaca Celebration Returns November 14–15
- Crown City Rising
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 4 hours ago
Cortland Gears Up for the Biggest Little Game in College Football
The biggest little game in college football is almost here — and there’s no better place to celebrate the legendary Cortaca rivalry than right here in the City of Cortland!
This November, the City of Cortland — in partnership with SUNY Cortland and the Cortland County Restaurant & Tavern Association — is proud to host the second annual Crown City Cortaca Celebration, happening Friday, November 14, and Saturday, November 15, in the heart of downtown
Whether you’re a Red Dragon alum, current student, local fan, or visiting for the weekend, downtown Cortland will be the place to gather, cheer, dance, and celebrate Red Dragon pride.
Friday, November 14 : Cortaca Community Pep Rally
Location: Behind Bru 64 & Main Street (closed between Port Watson and West Court)
The weekend kicks off Friday at 6 p.m. with the Cortaca Community Pep Rally, hosted by SUNY Cortland’s Student Activities Board. Downtown will transform into a sea of red and white as students, families, and fans come together to get fired up for game day.
Live Performances & Entertainment
The evening will be packed with performances from some of Cortland’s most talented groups, including:
Cortland Performing Arts Institute (6 p.m.)
Boom Dance Complex (6:15 p.m.)
Signature Dance (6:30 p.m.)
Studio Z School of Dance (6:45 p.m.)
The Cooper Greer Band will keep the crowd moving with live sets throughout the night, performing between pep rally segments and again to close out the evening.
Starting at 7 p.m., you’ll hear from special guests including SUNY Cortland Football coaches and team captains, Student Government Association President, Mayor Scott Steve, and President Erik Bitterbaum, as they share messages of community and Red Dragon spirit.
The excitement continues at 8 p.m. with performances from SUNY Cortland’s own Cheer Team, Ritmo Latino Dance Group, and Kickline, followed by final sets from Cooper Greer and a raffle giveaway at 8:30 p.m.
Throughout the night, guests can enjoy food trucks, carnival games, temporary tattoo booths, prizes, a mechanical bull, and more — all right in the heart of downtown Cortland. A big thank you to carnival game prize sponsors, BRIX Pubaria, Central City Bar & Grill, Gorgers Cortland and Bernard's Custom Logo & Trophy.
The fun officially wraps up around 9 p.m., but the energy doesn’t stop there. Local restaurants, breweries, and bars will be open late with food and drink specials for fans to keep the celebration going.
Saturday, November 15 - Game Day & Crown City Cortaca Celebration
Location: Main Street (closed between Port Watson and West Court)
On Saturday, all eyes turn to Ithaca’s Butterfield Stadium, where the SUNY Cortland Red Dragons face off against their crosstown rival, the Ithaca Bombers, for the prestigious Cortaca Jug.
Can’t make it to the game? No worries - downtown Cortland has you covered with a game-day viewing party under a heated tent on Main Street, next to the Marketplace Mall. The game will be live-streamed on a big screen so fans can experience every play, every touchdown, and every roar of the crowd right here at home.
Grab a bite from participating food trucks and downtown restaurants, stock up on your Red Dragons gear, and cheer on SUNY Cortland as they look to keep the Cortaca Jug in Crown City!
Where to Get Your SUNY Cortland Gear
No Cortaca weekend is complete without some Red Dragon gear! Here’s where you can find the best SUNY Cortland merchandise downtown:
Bernard’s Custom Logo & Trophy: Swing by their Main Street location (31 Main Street) during the week or find them at the Crown City Cortaca Celebration for SUNY Cortland apparel and souvenirs.
The Red Jug Pub: Pick up one of their exclusive Cortaca t-shirts to show off your Red Dragon pride.
Best Downtown Spots to Watch the Game
For an indoor game-viewing experience, plenty of local spots on Main Street will be ready to welcome fans:
Keep the Fun Going All Night
The excitement doesn’t end with the final whistle! After the Cortaca Jug game, keep the celebration going with post-game entertainment right in the heart of downtown Cortland. And if you're in the mood for a hearty dinner, our downtown restaurants are ready to welcome fans with delicious dishes.
Whether you’re here to watch the game, catch up with friends, or support our local businesses, we’re excited to welcome you to the Crown City Cortaca Celebration.
Come for the game - stay to celebrate and support local! Go Red Dragons!