Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

The East Tennessee State University Marching Bucs are making history this Thanksgiving as they travel to New York City to perform in the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Before they set off on this incredible journey, ETSU invites the community to join a special send-off event in honor of Tennessee’s first collegiate marching band in over 60 years to perform in the parade. 

The Bucs Send-off will be Nov. 24 from 10:45 to 11 p.m. on Martha Culp Avenue in front of University School on ETSU’s main campus.

All attendees are encouraged to bring noisemakers and signs of support for the sendoff, which is open to the community.

Guided by Dr. Joe Moore, the Marching Bucs have evolved from a small ensemble to a dynamic force of over 360 musicians, proudly representing ETSU and the state of Tennessee. The send-off is a special opportunity for the community to rally behind the band, honoring their resilience and commitment – particularly in light of recent challenges posed by Hurricane Helene. Despite these hardships, the Marching Bucs have pressed forward with intense rehearsals to prepare for this remarkable occasion. 

“The band embodies the pride and spirit of ETSU,” said Dr. Joe Moore, director of the Marching Bucs. “We’re thrilled to carry that energy to New York City and show what the Marching Bucs are made of. This send-off is a wonderful way for our community to be part of this historic journey.”