httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-MJYq793RQ&feature=g-like
Franklin Regional Band performed at the Pasadena Tournament of Roses parade this year.
No one who has ever played in their high school marching band can forget the camaraderie of their band family or how it feels to march onto the field at half-time. Those are bonds that most high school band families have in common, even if they never attended the same high school. Many high school marching bands take the opportunity to perform outside of sporting events, and some programs even take their show on the road out of state. These marching band trips forge friendships and create memories that are distinct experiences. They test the skills, heart, and mettle of any band and are in and of themselves, unforgettable.
So, where are the unforgettable places to perform? The lists below includes many of our favorite places that we have traveled with marching bands:
California:
Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade: Bands are selected approximately 14 months in advance. The above video features Franklin Regional Band, who performed this past year.
Hollywood Christmas Parade: This even takes place in late November each year in Hollywood. A great opportunity to get the crowd in the holiday spirit!
Disneyland: Perform for an international audience in Disneyland. Bands may audition to perform on the famous Disneyland Park parade route or in Disney California Adventure Park. Opportunities exist year-round
Big Bay Balloon Parade (San Diego): Join the parade with the most balloons! This is the center of a big festival in the Bay Area. The event takes place in December.
Pacific Life Holiday Bowl Game (San Diego – halftime show): Perform during half-time at a bowl game in front of a gigantic audience!
Florida
Walt Disney World®: Year-round performance opportunities are available to perform in Walt Disney World® Parks, whether it be marching through the streets of the Magic Kingdom® or performing on-stage. Additionally, Festival Disney offers a competitive music festival during weekend throughout the year in Walt Disney World® Parks
Hawaii
Waikiki Holiday Parade: March by torchlight with your high school band in beautiful Waikiki during the Waikiki Holiday Parade. This parade commemorates Pearl Harbor and honors veterans and survivors and takes place the Friday following Thanksgiving day each year.
Massachusetts
Patriot’s Day Parade (Lexington): This parade starts at Mass Ave and ends at the battle green and features local floats, marching minutemen, and local dignitaries.
New York
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: March through the streets of New York during this world-famous Thanksgiving Day parade.
Statue of Liberty – Let the notes of your band resonate over New York harbor as you play in the shadow of the Statue of Liberty.
Central Park : Perform in New York City’s backyard in Central Park.
Texas
Fiesta Flambeau Night Parade (San Antonio) : Perform with your high school marching band in America’s largest illuminated parade. Parade is held in late April.
Washington D.C.
Reflecting Pool – Perform in our Nation’s capitol at one of the most iconic places in history, the Reflecting Pool.  The Guild of Professional Tour Guides of Washington, D.C. has included the following in their recent publication:
In September 2009, as the National Park Service (NPS) Reflecting Pool restoration/renovation project was getting underway, the Guild recommended that electrical service be added at the western end of the Pool to support audio equipment used by musical performing groups. With the assistance of Russ Preble, then Guild President, Shirley Timashev wrote the NPS Project Manager to suggest this addition. Guild Affiliate Music Celebrations International joined in this recommendation. As of June 2012, NPS reported outlets are now in place on both sides of the plaza in the security wall. It’s a small victory for the Guild and our music performing groups!
