October 29, 2009 | Story by: Lindsey Chester | Categories: Events
Photo: Ashworth Drug’s Cary Band Day Float from 2003, photo: Rod Thomas
Just another reason to love this town-
Cary High will host the 51st Cary Band Day this Saturday, Oct 31st (Halloween).
What is Cary Band Day for those that haven’t checked it out in the past? The Event has been held annually since 1958 and is among the longest running high school marching band field competitions in the nation. To be sure, there will be a wide variety of floats from local businesses and organizations. And of course high school marching bands from around the Southeast. And again this year, former Band Director Jimmy Burns (1965-1977) and Drum Major Chris Branam will lead an alumni band as they march the parade route playing the Cary High Fight Song.
The official parade route is 1.3 miles (intersection of Academy and Chatham to intersection of Walnut and Cary Towne Blvd.) Crowds can gather in front of the Old Cary Elementary School and all along the parade route down Walnut Street to Cary High School.
Field Competing Bands are not required to march in the parade, however prizes are given to those bands in the parade. The Heart of Cary Award is the most impressive award any of these parade bands can win as this is judged by various alumni and citizens along the parade route. How’s that for small town feel?
The Band competition takes place at Cary High’s Cooper Stadium at the corner of Maynard and Walnut. Cary High School’s Concert Chorus will open the ceremonies at 11:50 and the marching bands begin playing at noon. Cary High School Marching Band and Western Carolina University will perform two exhibitions at 5:30 and 10:15 while the judges deliberate. Larger bands begin to play at 7pm continuing until their awards at 10:45. What a day!
So if you’re new to the area, an old Cary High Alum, or just looking to be outdoors on a gorgeous fall day before all the Trick or Treating, go downtown and check out this historic event in the Heart of Cary.
For more info check out: Cary Band Day. More weekend events on the Calendar.
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