Marching Band Festival at Manatee Oct. 26

Marching Canes to host 26th straight festival

 If you enjoy high school marching bands, you’re in for a treat.
The Manatee High School Marching ‘Canes will host the Florida Bandmasters Association District 11 Marching Band Festival Oct. 26 at Hawkins Stadium.   
More than 1,400 performers representing 15 marching bands will perform.
Besides Manatee County, Charlotte, DeSoto, Hardee, Hillsborough and Sarasota will also have talented scholastic bands on hand.
It is the 26th year the festival is being hosted by Manatee High, 902 33rd St. Ct. W.
The big show begins at 5 p.m.
“This is a tremendous opportunity to see our area’s high school bands at their best,” said Jim Bruce, Manatee High’s longtime band director. “The bands work all season toward this event. We encourage our community to come out, support the kids and watch some impressive performances.”
Each band is evaluated by two music judges as well as judges in the categories of marching, general effect, percussion and auxiliary units.
Tickets will be available at the festival.
Prices are $7 for ages 13 and up and $5 for ages 6-12.
Children six and under are free.
Parking is $3 per car.
Middle school band students may get a voucher from their band directors to attend the festival free of charge.
All gate proceeds go to support the bands in District 11 of the Florida Bandmasters Association.
For details, call Manatee High at 941-714-7300, ext. 2182 or 2093.