MHS Band Selected to March in the Sugar Bowl Parade

By: Shelia Mader

The Marianna High School Band, known as The Pride, has been selected to march in the 2027 Sugar Bowl Parade in New Orleans, Louisiana. The invitation is a significant honor for the program and the community, but it also comes with a substantial price tag.

Band members are working to raise $82,000 to cover travel and related expenses for the trip.

Band Director Zach Chorn and Band Booster President Jennifer Bernier met with the Jackson County Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday to request a waiver of rental fees for the Peanut Room at the Ag Extension Office, where they plan to hold a fundraiser. Commissioners unanimously approved the request.

The band will host a “Gatsby After Dark” event that evening to help raise funds and support their trip to New Orleans.

Chorn told commissioners that the band recently earned its first overall superior ratings in 13 years at an NBA (National Band Association) competition. “I was really proud of our group for doing that,” Chorn said. “We were contacted by Sugar Bowl representatives to represent the Florida Panhandle in the Sugar Bowl Parade.”

The parade is scheduled for January 17, 2027, and is part of the college football playoff events surrounding the Sugar Bowl.

“It’s a pretty big deal for our area and our students,” Bernier said. “We are extremely proud of the work they’ve put in and everything they’ve accomplished this year.”

Commissioner Donnie Branch made the motion to waive the rental fees, and Commissioner Paul Donofro also praised the band’s achievement. “This is quite an accomplishment to be invited to participate in the Sugar Bowl Parade,” Donofro said. “All the members of the band are to be congratulated.”

The motion passed unanimously.

Local individuals and businesses interested in supporting the band’s fundraising efforts can contact Chorn at Marianna High School (850-482-9605 or email at zach.chorn@jcsb.org) or reach out to any band member or band parent.