Towson Band Aims to Raise $500,000 for 101st Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade March

Towson University's marching band will perform in the 101st Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, the school announced Saturday, marking its first appearance since 2009 and launching a fundraising effort for the trip.

The university has set a $500,000 goal on its online fundraising page to cover the band's travel costs for the performance in Manhattan, including transportation, lodging, meals and equipment for students. The parade route runs 2.5 miles and ends at Macy's flagship store in Herald Square. Towson said the application process for marching bands to participate is competitive.

The band currently includes more than 200 members. The university's website states that members can receive scholarships ranging from $500 to $1,000 for their participation in preparing one halftime show each season. Preparation for the New York performance begins immediately, the school said.

Taylor Yozwiak, Towson's director of athletic bands, called the invitation an honor. "This opportunity is the culmination of years of dedication from our students, staff and marching band community," Yozwiak said in the school's announcement. "To be invited back to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is an incredible honor and a testament to the passion and talent of our band members."

University President Mark Ginsberg said the selection reflects the work of the band's members. "Being selected for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is recognition of years of hard work, artistic excellence and dedication," Ginsberg said in the announcement. "We are thrilled to see the members of the band showcase their talent on a national stage."

No marching bands from Maryland are scheduled to perform in this year's parade. Previous Maryland participants include the Morgan State University Magnificent Marching Machine in 2019, Towson in 2009 and the University of Maryland's Mighty Sound of Maryland in 2000.