UPDATE: Bandfest Day 2 has just concluded with a dazzling array of performances at Pasadena City College, showcasing the 19 top marching bands set to participate in the iconic Rose Parade on New Year’s Day. The event, held on December 30, 2025, brought together talented musicians from across the globe, captivating audiences with rhythmic enthusiasm and vibrant displays.
The 45th-annual Bandfest continued the excitement from Day 1, featuring two exhilarating sessions filled with marching music and captivating performances. Fans filled Robinson Stadium, sharing smiles and cheers as each band brought their unique flair to the field.
The first session kicked off with high-energy performances from the Pasadena City College Herald Trumpets and the Pasadena City College Tournament of Roses Honor Band. Other standout acts included the Homewood Patriot Band from Homewood, Alabama, and the Greendale High School Marching Band from Greendale, Wisconsin. The vibrant Arcadia Apache Marching Band and Color Guard from Arcadia, California, also dazzled the crowd.
The second session featured a lineup that included the Franklin High School Marching Band from Franklin, Tennessee, and the well-known Indiana University Marching Hundred. The United States Marine Corps West Coast Composite Band from San Diego, California, rounded out the day with a powerful performance, leaving the audience in awe.
Master of Ceremonies Jim Hahn, Music Committee Advisor, highlighted the significance of these performances, noting that they set the stage for the upcoming Rose Parade. “These bands represent the spirit of celebration and community that the Rose Parade embodies,” he stated.
As fans eagerly anticipate the Rose Parade, set to begin at 8 a.m. on January 1, 2026, the energy from Bandfest is palpable. Performers have traveled from as far as Toyonaka, Japan, showcasing a rich tapestry of cultural diversity through music and performance.
Expect a thrilling showcase as the bands take their talents to the streets of Pasadena, embodying the excitement and tradition of this cherished New Year’s event. Stay tuned for more updates as we head into the final preparations for the Rose Parade!
