The Towson University Marching Band (TUMB) has been selected to perform in the 101st Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade® in New York City on Thanksgiving Day 2027, a prestigious honor reserved for only a select number of marching bands chosen from hundreds of applicants nationwide.

The announcement was made following the band’s Homecoming performance at Johnny Unitas® Stadium on Oct. 31, where members learned they would represent Towson University and the state on one of the world’s most celebrated stages.

For the TUMB, the invitation marks a return to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade for the first time since the band’s acclaimed appearance in 2009, when it earned the distinction of becoming the “World-Famous” Towson University Marching Band. During that performance, the band appeared before millions of spectators lining the streets of New York City and millions more watching from home worldwide. 

“This is an extraordinary opportunities for our fabulous Towson University marching band and the entire TU community,” says Mark Ginsberg, president of Towson University. “Being selected for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a great recognition of their talent and artistic excellence. We will be thrilled to see Tiger Pride on full display as our students showcase their talent on a national stage.”

The invitation follows a highly competitive application process. Each year, Macy’s selects only a small number of marching bands from across the country to participate in the nationally televised event. The parade is among the most recognized holiday traditions in the United States.

The Towson University Marching Band is one of the university’s most visible and celebrated student organizations. Comprised of more than 225 students representing majors from across the university, the ensemble is known for its high-energy performances, commitment to school spirit and community engagement. Beyond football games, the band regularly performs at regional and national events and serves as a prominent ambassador for the university.

“This opportunity is the culmination of years of dedication from our students, staff and marching band community,” says Taylor Yozwiak, director of athletic bands. “To be invited back to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an incredible honor and a testament to the passion and talent of our band members. We are excited to represent Towson University and share our unique performance style with audiences across the country.” 

Preparations for the 2027 parade will begin immediately. Participation will require extensive planning, travel and fundraising to support student transportation, lodging, meals and equipment costs associated with the trip to New York City.

The university is inviting alumni, friends, families, community members and supporters of the arts to help make the experience possible for every student performer.

To support the Towson University Marching Band’s journey to the 2027 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, visit: https://give.towson.edu/tu-marches-to-macy-s to help the TUMB reach their $500,000 goal. Your donation removes financial barriers, allowing students to attend and experience the parade without additional costs. 

To learn more about TUMB, visit https://www.towsonbands.com/tumb/.

For media inquiries, email Jamie Abell at .

About Towson University 

Towson University repeatedly ranks as the #1 public university in Maryland, serving as the state’s university of opportunities. With more than 160 years of experience pushing possibilities, TU is a nationally recognized comprehensive public research university, known as a leader in inclusive excellence, social mobility, scholarship and the creative arts. As the largest university in greater Baltimore, TU’s momentum is always accelerating, with nearly 20,000 students and more than 200 bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs in business, science, education, fine arts, health professions, humanities, social sciences and applied professional fields. Located in Towson, Maryland, amid one of the country’s cultural and economic epicenters, TU is a powerful engine of opportunity and catalyst in the Mid-Atlantic, partnering with hundreds of businesses and organizations, impacting communities and fueling change for the public good. TU meets the holistic needs of each student to achieve success, a result of a deeply inclusive culture with a focus on equity among all students, faculty, staff and over 200,000 alumni worldwide.