Marching Bands

Marching Bands are an integral part of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, with at least one marching band appearing in every single Parade since its inception in 1924. Every year, approximately 10 High School and University bands are selected from across all 50 states, with each ensemble bringing something unique to the lineup.

The journey for bands participating in the Macy’s Parade begins 18 months out when the Macy’s Parade Band Selection Committee choses them from a list of hundreds of applicants. The rigorous selection process is based on certain key factors such as the band’s national recognition, awards, past performances and reputation in their community. From there, band members were surprised with the news of their selection at their school during Macy’s cross country Band Announcement Tour. These announcements generally consist of a surprise meetings for band members, who are surprised and presented with their official Macy's Parade drumhead.

Below is a category page for marching bands that have appeared in the Parade over the last nine decades.