The Lumberjack Marching Band from Northern Arizona University (NAU) will perform in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, marking both the band’s and any Arizona college band’s debut at the event. The appearance represents a milestone for NAU’s music program on a national stage.
In an interview with FOX10 Phoenix, NAU Director of Bands Stephen Meyer said he looks forward to students experiencing “the magic that is New York City.” Senior drum major Vinny Solano called the parade “the highest opportunity a college marching band can have.” The band’s performance follows months of preparation that began in January 2024.
Before leaving for New York, Flagstaff residents were treated to a preview of the Lumberjack Marching Band’s routine during a free send-off performance at Buffalo Park. The park’s trail served as a mock parade route where the fully uniformed band rehearsed their songs, AZ Daily Sun reports.
After recent snowfall, the band moved rehearsals indoors. Their parade routine, which highlights Flagstaff’s historic Route 66, aims to present a broader image of Arizona to millions of viewers. Drum major Sebastian Cisneros Ortega told FOX10 Phoenix that the band is proud to represent their community, saying, “I'm just so honored that we're showing not only America but the world that we are Flagstaff Arizona, we are NAU.”
Preparing for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has been a demanding but rewarding process for the Lumberjack Marching Band. They will perform two routines: one along the 2.5-mile parade route and another for their televised appearance in Herald Square. Director Stephen Meyer and the team are prepared for varying weather conditions. Senior Samantha Fagan, on her first visit to New York City, expressed excitement and gratitude to donors and the community for their support. Senior drum major Vinny Solano stated to AZ Daily Sun that for many band members, the opportunity “felt like a dream come true.”
