The sun rises behind the spires of Cinderella Castle and excitement ripples through the crowd. It’s a beautiful Thanksgiving morning at the Walt Disney World® Resort in Florida.
As hundreds of student performers march into place, the crowd cheers, joined by thousands of fans watching the online broadcast from home. Percussion keeping time, brass and winds singing out, these musicians herald not only the beginning of this one-of-a-kind event, but the wonder of the holiday season.
Welcome to the Thanksgiving Parade of Bands by Bob Rogers Travel.
About the Thanksgiving Parade of Bands
The Thanksgiving Parade of Bands (TPOB) is a BRT-exclusive event, developed in partnership with the Walt Disney World® Resort back in 2009. Since then, we’ve hosted this mass-band event annually, featuring talented marching bands from across the country.
After a competitive application process, selected bands are invited to participate in TPOB, where they’ll work with renowned clinicians, learn custom arrangements created by Grammy-nominated composer Rick DeJonge and celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday in unforgettable fashion.
The excitement begins before students leave home. You’ll receive your custom arrangement months in advance, creating excitement in the classroom as students look ahead to the big day. Prior to the event, a distinguished clinician will visit your school for a pre-trip clinic.
Then it’s off to Orlando, where students will learn from incredible instructors and perform alongside new friends from around the country. After their awe-inspiring performance and a day of rides, laughter and Mickey-shaped snacks, your students will gather for an evening of celebration.
Together, you’ll enjoy a Thanksgiving meal with all the trimmings, a private performance by the Gateways Brass Collective (sponsored by Conn-Selmer), an awards ceremony, a dessert party, and a viewing of the spectacular “Luminous: The Symphony of Us” at EPCOT.
Is the Thanksgiving Parade of Bands right for you?
We designed this one-of-a-kind event to help fill a need in student performance travel. TPOB is a good fit for you if:
- You’re looking for a non-competitive (yet challenging), fun and memorable event for your students.
- You’re ready to mix up your performance travel schedule a bit.
- You want to provide your program with a holiday opportunity where the band is truly the star of the show.
Here’s what some fellow directors say…
“I’ve participated in the Thanksgiving Parade of Bands three times and can unequivocally say that your students will love this experience. TPOB brings together groups from all over the country, allowing students to share a passion for music which will be remembered for a lifetime.”
~ Anthony Svejda, Oak Park and River Forest High School, IL
“The Thanksgiving Parade of Bands has been a highlight of our calendar since it started in 2009. The event gives our students the opportunity to be a part of a professionally-produced Disney attraction for thousands of spectators, complete with lights, fireworks, voiceovers and character appearances. And the Thanksgiving dinner and party is fantastic! It’s an experience like no other.”
~ Max Chernick, Bloomington High School, IL
Bob Rogers Travel is now accepting applications for the 2027 Thanksgiving Parade of Bands. Space is limited, and early applicants have the best chance at earning a spot.
Find out more at this page, or by searching “Thanksgiving Parade of Bands” in your favorite search engine. We’d love for your marching band to be a part of the holiday magic!
Photo courtesy of Disney World Resort.
