This Saturday, November 23, the Notre Dame Academy Band will continue its long-standing tradition of showcasing their skills in the Green Bay Holiday Parade. This event is a popular tradition among students and viewers alike as an opportunity to celebrate the city and show some holiday spirit.

As for Notre Dame’s involvement in the march, the academy has been a part of the show for as long as anyone can remember.

“I’m not sure, but I believe that the NDA band has been marching in the parade for at least the last 15 years,” said Steve Johnson. “I became involved in it by becoming the NDA band director in the summer of 2017 – that November was my first GB Holiday Parade.”

Preparation for this event is no easy task. Students work for months, building a repertoire of festive tunes and perfecting their marching skills.

“We start working on marching at our band camp the beginning of August and continue to work on the cadence, music and marching during our regular band class meeting time,” said Johnson.

Nicole (Nicki) Waystedt, NDA sophomore and self-proclaimed “band expert and enthusiast,” said, “We prepare for this event by marching and playing ‘Joy to the World’ around the parking lot. We do this a few times a week (weather permitting).”

NDA’s presentation is sweet and simple. “We don’t have a float, but we do have a large banner,” recalled Waystedt. “We all wear these really cool marching uniforms that are at least 30 years old.”

For those who wish to see the outfits in action, the parade will begin at 10 a.m.

According to the Green Bay Events Calendar, during the parade there will be FREE parking available in the Pine, Cherry and Main Street parking ramps and all nearby city streets. 

Crowds will be treated to the music of our marching band, plus that of many high schools in the area, along with performances from carolers, dancers and Santa himself. 

“It’s a lot of fun playing in front of thousands of people,” said Waystedt. “It’s also a great time with friends!” 

As for those who can’t make it to the Saturday morning celebration, the parade will be playing live on NBC26.

“It’s an exciting event to be a part of,” said Johnson, “and a great opportunity to represent NDA in a very public way.”