The Farmington High School marching band has been invited to represent Utah in the National Independence Day Parade in Washington, D.C., on July 4, 2026.
The national event will mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, bringing together performers, military units and organizations from across the country for a historic celebration along Constitution Avenue.
“I was honestly shocked and super excited,” said drum major Emma Newman. “Our band is getting such an amazing chance to showcase all the skill and hard work we've put in. At first it didn’t even feel real, but now that it’s sunk in, I’m super grateful for an opportunity like this, for me and for our band as a whole.”
The invitation came through Utah Sen. John Curtis, who serves on the committee helping organize national events for the semiquincentennial celebration. Only one marching band from Utah was selected to participate in the parade, placing Farmington students among performers from across the nation.
“To have the honor to represent the state in the 250th anniversary of our independence as a nation is very humbling,” said band director Brek Mangelson. “It’s going to be so special and memorable for the students and families to be in our nation’s capital during this historic event.”
For many students, the trip represents a chance to perform in one of the country’s most recognizable locations while sharing the results of years of rehearsal and musical training with a national audience.
“I am deeply honored to be representing the state of Utah in this celebration of our nation’s history,” said percussionist Teddy Strasser. “I feel proud that we get to represent Utah and show the world our music.”
Beyond the parade itself, the trip will include visits to historic landmarks and cultural sites throughout Washington, offering students opportunities to experience the history they have studied in school.
“The majority of the students have never traveled to Washington, D.C., before,” Mangelson said. “To be able to represent the state, march in front of the Capitol and the president and members of Congress on the 250th anniversary of independence is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Students say the experience will also be about sharing a meaningful moment with classmates who have spent long hours practicing and performing together throughout the year.
“For me, I’m most excited to go on this trip with all my closest friends and make amazing memories,” Newman said. “Performing in such an important place in front of a national audience is something not many people get to do.”
Participation in the marching band program often extends beyond music instruction, helping students build leadership skills, discipline and strong relationships with their peers.
“So much of my growth as a person has come about through marching band,” said saxophonist Zipporah Miles, a senior who was selected to travel and perform with the band after graduation. “I’ve learned how to make friends, be a leader, manage a busy schedule and maintain a standard of excellence in different areas of my life.”
Preparing for the national performance will require additional rehearsal time as the band works to ensure its show meets the scale and significance of the event.
“Our season will begin two weeks earlier than normal to prepare for the parade,” Mangelson said.
Students also see the opportunity as a chance to highlight the dedication and talent found in school music programs across the state.
“Representing Utah means a lot to me because marching band usually doesn’t get a lot of attention in Utah,” said trumpet player Caitlin Christensen. “Representing anything on a national stage is such a cool opportunity.”
Community members interested in supporting the band’s travel efforts can find more information at farmingtonbands.org/independence-day-trip-26 or donate online at dsdgive.net/event/6122.
