National Marching Music Day

National Marching Music Day celebrates the vibrant tradition of marching bands and their contributions to music and culture. This special day honors musicians, composers, and performers who bring “music on the move” to life through various forms of marching arts.

Quick Facts

When is it: March 4th annually
Tagged as: Music, Education, Arts, Performance
What’s the hashtag: #MarchForth #MarchingMusicDay
When was it founded: 2017
Who founded it: Drum Corps International (DCI)

History of National Marching Music Day

The day was established to spotlight marching music as an engaging and ever-expanding art form worldwide. The date March 4th was cleverly chosen as a play on words (“March Forth”), symbolizing the forward movement inherent in marching bands. The National Day Calendar officially recognized the celebration in 2017.

Timeline

1845: Notre Dame Marching Band established – oldest recorded marching band
1800s: First modern marching bands emerge from military traditions
2017: DCI establishes National Marching Music Day
2020: Virtual celebrations during pandemic
2024: Eighth anniversary celebration

Dates by Next Year

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	March 4	Tuesday
2026	March 4	Wednesday
2027	March 4	Thursday
2028	March 4	Saturday
2029	March 4	Sunday
2030	March 4	Monday

How It’s Observed

Marching bands perform at parades, schools, and special events. Communities organize concerts, music workshops, and band competitions. Social media buzzes with #MarchForth posts featuring performances and band memories.

Fun Facts About Marching Bands

Military bands were the original marching bands
Marching bands typically perform at football games and parades
Color guards add visual elements with flags and props
Modern bands incorporate electronic instruments
Formations create intricate patterns visible from above

Quiz

What was the first official marching band in America?
In what year was National Marching Music Day founded?
What does BOA stand for?
(Answers: Notre Dame Marching Band, 2017, Bands of America)