Welcome to the 48th annual JMU Parade of Champions!
Saturday October 24th, 2026
2026 Results
About
James Madison University is proud to host our Annual JMU Parade of Champions marching band competition each October.
It is a fantastic celebration of music education and the marching arts, with outstanding bands and nationally-recognized adjudicators, open to any high school marching band regardless of size or experience.
Performing in our state-of-the-art Bridgeforth Stadium, complete with the scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the background, makes JMU Parade of Champions one of the most memorable events in our area. The stadium boasts a seating capacity of almost 25,000 and includes 2 decks (perfect for viewing the performances), a professional video board, club lounge and suites, a press box and media complex, as well as an expansive concessions area.
When we combine these facilities with an incredible line-up of bands from the Mid-Atlantic, it can offer an exciting event for everybody involved!
Admission & Seating
TICKETS ARE SOLD THE DAY OF THE EVENT AT TICKET BOOTH A
Ticket Pricing for 2026
General Admission: $20
Discounted Admission: $15
* Discount Admission available to the following: Active/Retired Military (Military ID required), Students: K-12 & College (ID only required for college students), & Seniors 65+ (ID required).
Free Admission for children 3 yrs old and under
When admission is purchased, each individual will receive a wristband that will allow admission to the event all day. Wristbands are sold at the contest entrance at Ticked Booth “A”.
Payment Options: JMU will accept cash, checks (made payable to “JMU Bands”), and credit cards.
Download the seating map of Bridgeforth Stadium (PDF).
SPECTATOR INFO
CLEAR BAG POLICY IN EFFECT
Spectators are asked to adhere to the policy by either leaving all prohibited, non-clear bags at home or in their vehicles, or by using the following guidelines:
- Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12"
- One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag
- Small clutch purse, with or without strap or handle that do not exceed 4.5" x 6.5"
- An exception will be made for medically necessary items and diaper bags with the presence of a child after proper inspection at a designated entrance
Prohibited bags include, but are not limited to: non-clear purses, wallets or clutches larger than 4.5" x 6.5", coolers, briefcases, backpacks, fanny packs, luggage of any kind, computer bags and camera bags or any bag larger than the permissible size.
Clear bags are on sale now at the JMU Bookstore.
CONCESSIONS AND MERCHANDISE
As always, our music student organizations will be providing POC merchandise for purchase during the event. We will have several merchandise tables set up around the stadium for you, your students, and their families to browse. In addition, JMU Concessions and Domino’s Pizza will be open during the event to sell food and beverages to participants and spectators. You may also choose to bring your group off campus to one of the many restaurants or shopping centers within a few miles of campus. (PLEASE NOTE: CONCESSIONS ARE NOW CASHLESS. ONLY CARD AND MOBILE PAY WILL BE ACCEPTED.)
TRAVEL AND ACCOMODATIONS
In preparation for your visit to Harrisonburg, please consider visiting the following website to help with your planning:
