Northern Arizona University’s Lumberjack Marching Band will perform in the 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. It marks the first appearance by the group.
The Lumberjacks were selected from more than 100 applicants to perform alongside nine other bands.
Director Brent Levine said the opportunity is “a dream come true for students.” He also says the band is “thrilled” to represent the state and the school.
According to the band, the selection committee looks for those groups with “stage presence, musical and marching abilities.”
Macy’s also provided the band with $10,000 to kick off fundraising.
The 211 performers will need some $200,000 to cover expenses for the travel. Donations are being collected at the NAU foundation’s website.
"It’s so exciting for me and the band and the music department and quite frankly the entire university who has rallied around us with so much support. We’re so excited to take our band and our university out onto a national stage," Levine said.
He said the band is currently working with parade organizers to determine the music it will perform.
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