Northwest High School Marching Band to Perform at America’s Thanksgiving Parade in Detroit

THE MARCHING MOUNTIES WILL PERFORM FOR MILLIONS OF VIEWERS AS THEY MARCH IN ONE OF THE MOST PRESTIGIOUS AND HISTORIC HOLIDAY PARADES IN THE COUNTRY

Northwest High School’s marching band has been selected to perform at America’s Thanksgiving Parade in Detroit, MI! Congratulations to the entire band and Band Director, Mr. Bryan Mangiavellano, on this incredible achievement- a true testament to Greatness happening in our Mountie Nation. 

This year marks the 100th edition of the parade and will once again feature celebrity appearances, iconic floats, massive balloons and hundreds of thousands of spectators lining the streets of Detroit. In addition to the live audience, millions of viewers from across the country will watch the television broadcast and see our Mounties march down Woodward Avenue.

“It’s a really special thing for this band in particular, which is full of really talented students, especially our senior class, to do something beyond what we would normally do in a football season,” Mangiavellano said. “It’s just fun to see them earn these really cool opportunities.”

Mangiavellano is proud of his students and all they have accomplished, and he is thrilled to see their enthusiasm to continue learning, growing and challenging themselves. 

“A lot of students are in band because they know there are high expectations and high rewards,” he said. “We have fun by working hard and being good at what we’re trying to do. I think a lot of kids like that. When a kid joins the Northwest band, they know they’re going to be able to learn and showcase their abilities at different levels.”

The opportunity to perform in such a large and recognized event is an honor for senior Drum Major Kristen Cumings, who is excited to show everyone what the Marching Mounties are capable of.

“I think there’s a lot of pressure,” Cumings said. “I’m nervous, but I’m also really excited. This band is really impressive and I’m excited to show that off to a bunch of people.”

As a senior, Cumings hopes to leave a legacy that inspires future band members to achieve Greatness.

“I’m really proud of this band and what we’ve been able to do,” she said. “Being a senior just makes this even more special. I’ll be able to look back on this and really think of all the awesome people I was able to do it with.”

This amazing accomplishment by our Marching Mounties is a testament to their hard work and passion for music. Thank you to all the supporters and families of the band for your commitment and dedication to the program. We are so proud of our Mounties and excited to watch them perform this Thanksgiving!

 

We are…Northwest!

Go Mounties!!

 

America’s Thanksgiving Parade steps off at 8:45 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 26, 2026 and is approximately a 90 minute march. It follows a roughly three-mile stretch of Woodward Avenue, beginning at Kirby and Woodward and ending at Congress and Woodward. 

The public can attend the parade for free and spectate along much of the route. For more spectator and parking information, click here.
 

About Northwest Community Schools

Northwest Community Schools serves over 3,500 students across 5 schools in Jackson, MI. Grounded in a mission of providing a positive culture that inspires students to achieve Greatness. With a focus on academic excellence, innovative learning opportunities, and strong community partnerships, Northwest Community Schools works collaboratively with families, staff, and community members to create a culture where all students can grow, achieve, and thrive.

                                                                                                               Photo by John Lucas Jr. | JTV Sports

NWHS Band Director, Bryan Mangiavellano, leads the Marching Mounties on the field to perform during a Mountie football game.