Historically Black colleges and universities have debated forever on whose homecoming festivities reign supreme. While Spelman College, and Morehouse College, are on the top of the totem pole, and North Carolina A&T University of Greensboro takes pride in having “the greatest homecoming on earth,” we know Howard University got it on lock.

From spontaneous movie premieres, fashion shows, special guest appearances, and of course, the Yardfest concert, it’s no wonder why folks from all over the area pack it up and head to DC for an eventful weekend.

Here are five of the most memorable moments at Howard University’s Yardfest.

The Notorious B.I.G. and Puff Daddy

Howard brings out The Notorious B.I.G. and Puff Daddy for a legendary performance in 1995. There are several recognizable faces in attendance, which is known to be one of the dopest HBCU concerts of all time.

Jay-Z with Beenie Siegel and Memphis Bleek

Five years after Biggie and Puff tore it up on the yard, Jay-Z came through with Beenie Siegel and Memphis Bleek to stun the crowd by performing “Hard Knock Life,” “Big Pimpin,” and a slew of his biggest hits. This was just a couple of weeks prior to the release of ‘The Dynasty: Roc La Familia.’

Wale

DMV’s own, Wale, performed “Nike Boots” on the renowned Yardfest stage, and shortly after, the live performance was used in his official video for the song.

Drake

The crowd at Yardfest was out of control when Drake touched the stage to perform his hits, after a stellar performance by Pusha T & 2 Chainz At Howard University Homecoming 2012.

That day it poured but the show definitely went on.

Lil Uzi Vert

In 2016, after a 2-year hiatus from the Yardfest Concert, due to forcefully being shut down by the city, the live music was back with another powerful lineup, including Common and Fabolous headlined by Lil Uzi Vert. Gentrification wasn’t stopping jack!

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