Fall Festival

Fall Festival is our high school’s annual band competition, held on the last Saturday of October. It is the largest fundraiser for our band program and a true all-hands-on-deck event, requiring months of planning and hundreds of volunteers. Each year, we welcome more than 30 bands and thousands of spectators, with all Viking band students and families working together to ensure the event’s success. Fall Festival also serves as the final performance of our marching show for the season. Our band performs in exhibition (non-judged), allowing students to enjoy the experience without pressure and have fun.

The last rehearsal of the season is held the Thursday before Fall Festival. Here's my boy, conducting the final practice run of "Mama Always Said" from his podium as the sun sets on his high school marching band career:

At the end of rehearsal, the seniors go up on the directors' stand and watch the underclassmen perform the show without them. This symbolic gesture shows that the program is in good hands next year thanks to the leadership and mentoring that the seniors have provided the younger musicians:

The final performance of the evening is the "Senior Run". The seniors play a compilation of their show tunes from past years and present a goofy, fun medley for everyone:

The drum majors call the band to attention one last time and dismiss them:

"VIKING BAND!"

Saturday is Fall Festival. We had perfect fall weather this year- brisk in the morning, but sunny and warmer in the afternoon:

Hanging out in the press box assisting judges

The final performance of the show is emotional each year, but this year, it was especially poignant for our family. It's the end of an era, and one that has shaped our children so profoundly and brought our family so much joy:

There was not a dry eye to be found as the final notes were played. Mark and I had tears of gratitude and pride, and our senior was overcome with emotion as well:

Hugging Mr. Brooks

These two have the most wonderful, supportive friendship and compliment each other so well.

One special highlight of the evening was the inaugural Brian McMath Award for Excellence in General Effect. It was especially meaningful that Luke and Jacob were able to join Mr. McMath in presenting the award to the winning band:

At the conclusion of Fall Festival, the seniors cut their banners down from the stadium and celebrated the close of their marching band chapter:

We are so proud of you, Luke. When you joined marching band in 8th grade, we had no idea how profoundly this program would shape your life. The places you’ve traveled, the leadership and growth opportunities you’ve gained, and the experiences you’ve shared with the NW Viking Band are a gift beyond measure. We can’t wait to see where this journey takes you next!