From the mountains of Western North Carolina to the streets of London, the “Baddest Band in the Land” is preparing for its next international performance.
Western Carolina University’s Pride of the Mountains Marching Band has accepted an invitation to perform in the London New Year’s Day Parade on Jan. 1, 2028, marking another major milestone for one of the nation’s premier collegiate marching bands. The invitation places WCU on one of the world’s most visible parade stages and continues a tradition of national and international excellence for the Pride of the Mountains.
The Pride of the Mountains has represented WCU at some of the most prestigious events in marching band history, including the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California; two Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parades in New York City; the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin, Ireland; and the Bands of America Grand National Championships. The band also received the Sudler Trophy in 2009, one of the highest honors awarded to collegiate marching bands.
The London appearance will continue the band’s commitment to providing transformative educational and performance opportunities while showcasing WCU on an international stage. The announcement comes as the Pride of the Mountains begins its 2026 season with a new production titled “kNOW where.” The show explores the ideas of knowing where you are headed while embracing the uncertainty that accompanies new opportunities and experiences.
Over the next two seasons, members of the Pride of the Mountains will prepare for the journey to London while continuing to perform throughout the region and across the country. The band’s 2026 season will culminate with an appearance at the Bands of America Grand National Championships in Indianapolis, Indiana, one of the premier competitions for marching bands.
For many students, the performance in London will represent years of preparation and dedication while providing an opportunity to serve as ambassadors for the university and WNC before an international audience.
The London New Year’s Day Parade is one of the world’s largest New Year’s celebrations, featuring marching bands, performers, and cultural groups from around the globe. The 2028 event is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of spectators along the parade route and reach millions more through broadcast and digital coverage.
For more information about how you can support the band’s trip to London, visit go.wcu.edu/london interest.