Winter 2004

Volume 11, Issue 2

The Bowl Games and Parades between Christmas and into the New Year continue to have appeal to the marching bands that want to "show your stuff" to large audiences, in national parades such as the Tournament of Rose Parade or halftime shows in major stadiums across the country.  Many combine parades with half-time performances such as the Alamo Bowl in Texas, Gator Bowl in Florida; and a few, such as the Outback Bowl in Tampa, Florida, also offer festival performance competitions.  Wherever you are located, there is an event for marching bands of all sizes.

Can't travel over Christmas Break?  The Hollywood Christmas Parade in California, Jingle Elf Parade in Chicago, Detroit Thanksgiving Parade, Macy's in New York and Philadelphia Thanksgiving Parade are great events for November trips.  There are also dozens of parades and events with large crowds throughout the year, in popular locations that may fit into your travel schedule:  St. Patrick's Day parades in New York and Chicago, Nation's Day (Veterans Day) Parade in New York,  Dollywood Parade in Pigeon Forge in May, Blossom Parade in Niagara or the Indianapolis 500 Parade in May plus many more!

Alan Houk, director of the United High School Marching Band, just returned from New York City where his 75 member band participated in the Nation's Day (Veterans Day) parade.  "This was the

best experience we have ever had!  The parade was perfect for a band our size and the students and parents were thrilled with their entire New Horizons New York experience!"

Some events are highly selective, and others are open on a first come basis to qualifying groups.  Check out our New Horizons website for a more complete (but not inclusive) list, and contact New Horizons to assist you in getting applications, gaining acceptance, and preparing an experience for your band and parents that creates "Memories of a Lifetime!"

Inside this issue:

Walt Disney World Resort offers a great opportunity for choirs every year between Thanksgiving and New Years Day.  You group can perform with the Disney Orchestra and cast members as part of the Candlelight Processional! 

This massed choir event happens several times each night and different guest star narrators are on hand to tell the Christmas story.  In the past, groups have performed with Eartha Kitt, Heather Headley, Gary Sinise, and Steven Curtis Chapman plus many others.  Your group can apply and audition for this event anytime and New Horizons can help!  Contact your New Horizons Tour Consultant today and begin planning your holiday tour at the Happiest Place On Earth!