Williston, North Dakota Celebrates 99 Years of Band Day Fun and Tradition

Get ready! The sound of drums, tubas, and yes—even those squeaky clarinets—is just around the corner as the 99th Annual Band Day Parade takes over Williston this Saturday. Whether you're a fan of music, marching, or just looking for a good excuse to sit outside and wave at people, this cherished event has something for everyone.

Why the Parade Route Changed—and Why It’s Working Better Than Ever

The parade will follow its now-familiar route—a change made a few years ago when organizers needed more space and better logistics for staging. It begins at Williston State College (18th Street & University Avenue), heads west to 2nd Avenue West, and then marches south to Harmon Park on 11th Street West.

With the college and ARC areas offering plenty of room for lineup and preparation, the updated route has proven to be a smart move, making parade day smoother and more enjoyable for everyone involved.

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Music, Candy, and a Whole Lot of Fun

Along the route, expect to see everything from high school marching bands to creative community floats, plenty of candy being tossed (friendly reminder: let the kids win that race), and a whole lot of hometown pride. And yes—there’s an excellent chance you’ll hear “Louie Louie” more than once. It just wouldn’t be Band Day without it.

More Than Just a Parade

Band Day isn’t just a parade—it’s a full celebration. This year’s theme, “Let Freedom Ring,” honors America’s 250th anniversary, bringing an extra layer of pride and excitement to the festivities.

Read More: Williston North Dakota Raffle Offers Rare Piece of Local History for Just $5

Get Ready To Rumble

And here’s something new to get excited about: the Seattle Seahawks Blue Thunder Drum Line will be in town, adding even more energy and rhythm to an already electric atmosphere.

Make a Day of It

The fun doesn’t stop when the parade ends. Head over to Harmon Park, where vendors will be open from 10 AM to 5 PM, offering food, treats, and plenty of ways to keep the good times rolling.

Plus, don’t miss Food Truck Friday on May 8th, starting around 1 PM, a perfect way to kick off the weekend festivities early.

Event Details at a Glance

• Date: Saturday, May 9, 2026
• Parade Route: Williston State College → 2nd Ave W → Harmon Park
• Vendors at Harmon Park: 10 AM – 5 PM
• Parade starts at 12:00pm
• Theme: Let Freedom Ring