VERNON TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Sussex County) — The Vernon Township High School Marching Band represented the community at two high-profile events during the 2025-26 school year, performing in New York City’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade and at Walt Disney World in Florida.
The performances highlighted the band’s continued tradition of excellence and provided students with opportunities to represent Vernon Township before large audiences while developing leadership, teamwork and musicianship.
This spring marked the band’s 15th consecutive year participating in New York City’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, one of the world’s largest and oldest parades.
Eighty student performers, including 70 musicians and 10 members of the color guard and honor guard, marched through Manhattan before an estimated crowd of nearly 2 million spectators. The appearance continued a tradition that began in 2010 and has become a signature event for the program.
“Vernon Township High School marching band’s participation in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade since 2010 has been a performance that the marching band has looked forward to annually,” said Max Taylor, Band Director. “The students, parents, and greater Vernon community celebrate the VTHS marching band’s participation and representation in the annual parade and continue to be proud of our students and their high level of performance. To be a part of this wonderful parade with our students continues to be an annual highlight as band director.”
Students said the parade offered a unique experience both musically and personally.
“Doing the parade is a great experience to have. It helps you learn to be a unit, and parade season can include more people than marching band can because it has fewer detailed rehearsals that don’t interfere with sports,” said senior Alejandrina Roman.
“The parade is a good experience to have as a musician because it’s a different style, as well as the unique experience of marching in NYC, which many don’t get to have,” added senior Johanna Bruhns.
The band’s successful year continued with a trip to Florida, where students marched down Main Street, U.S.A., at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom and performed for visitors from around the world.
The trip also showcased the broader accomplishments of Vernon Township High School’s music program. Members of the Symphonic Ensemble participated in a Disney Performing Arts clinic and performed at Disney Springs, while jazz students also performed at Universal Studios’ CityWalk.
School officials said the experiences allowed students to perform on nationally recognized stages while building confidence, leadership skills and lasting memories.
From New York City to Walt Disney World, the Vernon Township High School Marching Band continued to represent the township through a commitment to excellence, teamwork and performance throughout the school year.
