By Allison Peck
Kearney, Neb. — The North Platte High School band will join dozens of musicians from across Nebraska this weekend for a longtime fall tradition in downtown Kearney.
The University of Nebraska at Kearney will host its 67th annual Band Day Parade at 10 a.m. Saturday, with 32 middle and high school bands joining the UNK Pride of the Plains Marching Band.
The parade will begin at 21st Street and Third Avenue, travel south to Railroad Street, then head east to Central Avenue before turning north and ending at 24th Street and Central Avenue.
UNK Band Day dates back to the 1950s and showcases band programs from across the state. The event also serves as preparation for the Harvest of Harmony Parade and Field Competition, scheduled for October 3 in Grand Island.
The parade includes competition, with trophies awarded to the top three bands in each class for parade marching. Additional awards will recognize the outstanding drum line, color guard and overall champion.
Following the awards ceremony, participating bands can take part in the 10th annual Bearcat Marching Festival at Kearney High School.
The festival uses a “comments only” clinic format, giving bands an opportunity to receive feedback on their field performances ahead of formal competitions later this fall.
The UNK Band Day lineup includes the North Platte band, along with groups from Ogallala, Lexington, Cozad, Broken Bow, Gering, Grand Island, Hastings, Columbus, Kearney and several other Nebraska communities.
The event will provide an opportunity for students to showcase their musical talents while continuing a tradition that has brought generations of musicians together.