News The Alabama A&M Marching Band Will Lead The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade The Marching Maroon & White Band will be the first HBCU marching band to kick off the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in its 97 year history. By Meghan Overdeep Meghan Overdeep Meghan Overdeep has more than a decade of writing and editing experience for top publications. Her expertise extends from weddings and animals to every pop culture moment in between. She has been scouring the Internet for the buzziest Southern news since joining the team in 2017. Southern Living's editorial guidelines Published on November 16, 2023 Close Photo: Michael Wade/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images Get ready for some high stepping! Alabama A&M University’s Marching Maroon & White Band has been selected as the lead band for the 97th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. They will be the first HBCU marching band to kick off the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade since it debuted in 1924. The “Show-band of the South” from Huntsville, Alabama, will be the first of 11 marching bands featured in the beloved parade on Thursday, November 23. In addition, AAMU reports that the university’s Dancing Divas will be featured in a special performance with the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall. “The band also has a few other surprises that will fill its schedule while in the Big Apple,” a news release teased. “For nearly 100 years, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has selected the finest marching bands and performance groups representing every musical genre and marching style to perform in this beloved holiday celebration,” Wesley Whatley, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade creative producer, told New York Amsterdam News. “When it comes to entertaining audiences, no marching, step, or dance style delivers like HBCU bands and step groups. Their creative energy and showmanship bring an unmatched energy to the parade. This year, we are thrilled that Alabama A&M University will step into the spotlight and showcase their talent on a national stage for millions of viewers across the country this Thanksgiving.” The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will feature a total of 11 marching bands from high schools and colleges around the country as well as performances by Muppets of Sesame Street, Brandy, Chicago, David Foster and Katharine McPhee, Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors, En Vogue, Jessie James Decker, Miss America Grace Stanke, Pentatonix, and more. The fun starts Thursday, November 23 at 8:30 a.m. on NBC. The telecast, hosted by Today’s Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker, will air from 8:30 a.m. to noon in all time zones. Fans can also stream the broadcast on Peacock. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit