DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — The University of Alabama’s Million Dollar Band (MDB) has been selected to perform in the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2026.
The MDB is one of just 10 marching bands chosen from more than 100 applicants to take part in the nationally televised celebration, which will be held Thursday, Nov. 26, 2026, in New York City. The parade will air live on NBC and Peacock from 8:30 a.m. to noon Eastern time.
“We are thrilled to have the Million Dollar Band join in the celebration of the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2026,” said Sara Flores, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade associate producer, in a news release. “The streets of New York City will undoubtedly pulse with energy and excitement brought by the University of Alabama’s phenomenal marching band as they make their way down the parade route.”
The band last appeared in the 2021 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Ken Ozzello, professor of conducting and director of bands at the University of Alabama, said the group is honored to return for the milestone event.
“The University of Alabama Million Dollar Band is deeply honored to be selected to perform in the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade,” Ozzello said. “To return to one of America’s most iconic holiday traditions is a privilege, and our students are thrilled to represent our university and our state.”
Each selected band will receive a $10,000 grant from Macy’s to support travel and preparation for the event.
The Million Dollar Band, part of the UA Crimson Tide’s long-standing traditions for more than a century, performs during pregame and halftime at every Alabama football game and supports other campus athletics including basketball, gymnastics, and volleyball.
With 400 members, the MDB is the largest student organization at the university. It received the Sudler Trophy in 2003, often regarded as the “national championship” of collegiate marching bands, and is regularly invited to perform at events nationwide.
