“One band, one sight, one sound”– the motto of NAHS Marching Band was perfectly displayed by the crisp uniforms, tuned instruments, billowing flags, and “Eyes with Pride” as NAHS Viking Band and Color Guard lined up behind the gate in Orlando, Florida. After weeks of rigorous practice (including a long week of necessary heat acclimation training), fundraising, and a 20 hour bus ride, they were ready for Disney. A great honor was awarded our marching band: The opportunity to lead the parade in Disney’s “Festival of Fantasy” down Main Street USA in Magic Kingdom. 

The parade began in Frontierland within Magic Kingdom, passed through Liberty Square, the gorgeous blue and white castle, and proceeded to the exciting home stretch down spectator-lined Main Street. Once the doors opened, the Band played true and with passion, the Color Guard began to twirl their flags with grace and precision, and the Honor Guard proudly held up our school banner for all to see. Tons of cheerful Disney guests clapped and cheered on the sidelines as the band marched and played a Disney melody of “It’s A Small World”, the Mickey Mouse theme song, and “Zippity Doo Dah”. There were many joyful smiles in the crowd, including children imitating twirling flags and singing along to the music. Once the parade concluded, the marching band went backstage to refresh.

Overall, being the leading band in a Disney parade was one of the highest honors we could receive. The students were also able to enjoy a workshop with professional Disney musicians topped off with a fun-packed vacation at 5 Disney parks during the trip as well. Of course, none of it would have been possible without the hardworking efforts of NAHS Music Director Mr. Kastner, the fundraising efforts of both the students and the Vikings Music Parents Association, and our school administration. We offer immense gratitude to everyone who helped the band rise to the occasion of this great honor, and so we congratulate our Band and Color Guard for their spectacular performance. Our little town may feel like a small world, but the students who represented North Arlington in Disney definitely showed everyone how to hit it big!