Gardner-Webb Marching Bulldogs Only University Band Selected to Perform in Novant Health Thanksgiving Eve Parade on Nov. 27

Audience Includes 100K Spectators in Uptown Charlotte, N.C., and Over a Million Television Viewers

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The Gardner-Webb University Marching Bulldogs earned a coveted spot in the 78th annual Novant Health Thanksgiving Eve Parade on Nov. 27. They are the only university band chosen to perform, and they have the honor of being the first marching band in the parade lineup.

“We are thrilled to announce that the Marching Bulldogs have been selected to participate,” asserted Director of Bands and Assistant Professor of Music Dr. Sarah Fabian. “It is a profound honor to represent Gardner-Webb and to embrace the spirit of giving, family, and community. This monumental occasion allows us to showcase our talents live on television before an audience of over 1 million viewers, with more than 100,000 spectators in attendance.”

Hundreds of bands apply for the annual Thanksgiving Eve Parade with the application process beginning in early summer. Since becoming director in 2022, Fabian has been impressed with the Marching Bulldogs’ growth in musicianship and skill. She felt confident in submitting the application, which included a performance video, before the group even started practicing in August.

Once the new and returning band members arrived on campus and went to work learning their new show, Fabian was impressed with their dedication. The group quickly became a cohesive unit and she felt sure they would receive an invite to the parade. 

“The Marching Bulldogs truly embody a sense of family, and there’s no better way to spend Thanksgiving Eve than together in celebration,” Fabian emphasized. “We can’t wait to share this unforgettable experience with everyone.”

The parade will step-off at 5:45 p.m. and air live on WCCB on Nov. 27 from 6 to 8 p.m. It will take place on Tryon Street, beginning at the intersection with 9th Street and ending at the intersection with Good Samaritan Way. Free viewing spots can be found from 9th to Brooklyn Village Avenue.

The performance viewing area is located from Brooklyn Village Avenue to Good Samaritan Way, and VIP seating is available in this area for $35. Learn more about the parade here.

Along the parade route, the Marching Bulldogs will play “Angels on Parade,” a medley of Christmas classics. In the performance area, they will present “Runaway Baby” by Bruno Mars from their 2024 Fall halftime show.

Kaselynn Mitchell, of Woodstock, Ga., an exercise science, pre-professional concentration major, likes the music Fabian has chosen. “I enjoy the fast tempo and the upbeat energy the song creates for the band members and the audience,” she noted.

Mitchell started “spinning” 14 years ago as a sixth-grader in winter guard. Mitchell credits her participation in color guard with boosting her confidence and self-esteem. “I have a great passion for performing and expressing my emotions through music,” she affirmed. “I am super excited to have the opportunity to be on TV and be able to share our talents for this special holiday. Being in the marching band has allowed me to gain a second family while letting me continue to keep up with my skills and learn more at every rehearsal.”

She values Fabian’s leadership. “Dr. Fabian is truly the light of the GWU band program,” Mitchell praised. “She is constantly finding new opportunities for us to go to more games, parades, high schools, and other events to spread GWU spirit and our love for band. Dr. Fabian is the center of our marching band and has spent countless hours building and growing the marching band program. She is actively engaged with every section and without her strong leadership skills, our marching band would not be where it is today.”

Raniyah Adams, of Bessemer City, N.C., described her excitement when she heard the Marching Bulldogs were chosen to participate in the annual Charlotte tradition. “It truly feels magical, a once-in-a-lifetime moment,” observed the clarinet player. “I love being in the marching band for the amazing opportunities we have and the long-term friendships and family I get to be with every day. Marching band will always have a place in my heart.”

A computer information systems major, Adams has played her instrument for nine years and started marching six years ago. She appreciates Fabian’s dedication to Gardner-Webb’s program. “Dr. Fabian is so welcoming and supportive of us,” Adams stated. “She has transformed our program’s positivity and engagement, as well as our creativity.”

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.