The Temple University Diamond Marching Band is excited to bring its rhythmic flair to New York for the 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
The Diamond Marching Band is one of nine bands chosen by Macy’s to perform in the annual holiday spectacle that is televised nationally on NBC.
The band was informed of the selection when Temple and Macy’s made a surprise announcement Sunday afternoon following an exhibition performance.
As part of the announcement, Charlie Bibeault, store manager for Macy’s Center City, presented the Diamond Marching Band with a $10,000 fundraising kickoff.
“This is such an incredible opportunity, and the students couldn’t be more excited to receive the invitation,” said Matthew Brunner, director of athletic bands.
“This could not have happened without all the hard work and dedication of the alumni of the band who came before. Their skill and perseverance over the years have paved the way for the Diamond Band be part of the 2025 Macy’s Parade.” [node:video]
Each year, the Macy’s Parade Band Committee looks for bands that have the stage presence, musical abilities and marching abilities to captivate millions of live spectators and viewers nationwide, the retailer said in a statement.
Macy’s selected the Diamond Marching Band from a pool of more than 100 applicants from around the nation. The ensemble will join iconic Macy’s staples: floats, giant character balloons, clowns and superstars to perform along the over two-mile route in New York City.
Next year will mark the band’s 100th anniversary. The group, which currently has 174 members, will spend the next 12 months planning for their parade appearance by hosting rehearsals and creative fundraising events.
“We are so proud of the Diamond Marching Band. It’s tremendous to see the hard work and dedication of our students and faculty recognized in this way,” said Robert Stroker, dean and vice provost for the arts.
“One of our main goals is to provide unique opportunities and experiences for our students and this is one that these students will remember forever.”