Outside the Lines Already?!? 2026 Starts Early
- Noblesville Band Marketing
- 1 day ago
- 7 min read
Big moments are here… and we’re starting early.
The 2026 marching season is officially underway, and this year comes with something special right out of the gate. The Marching Millers have been selected to perform in the 500 Festival Parade on May 23, 2026. This is an incredible opportunity to represent Noblesville in front of more than 200,000 spectators, and it’s setting our entire season in motion earlier than usual.
There’s a lot happening quickly, so here’s everything you need to know, in order.
First Things First: Get Registered
If you’re planning to be part of the Marching Millers this season, sign up ASAP.
We need every student on the roster now so we can plan for the parade and ensure everyone is included in rehearsals, uniforms, and logistics.
Welcome NEW Guard Director & Instructor!
Thomas Thawley & Thomas Fitzpatrick Read their bios
We’re excited to welcome two outstanding additions to our team this season. Please join us in welcoming Thomas Thawley, Director of Color & Winter Guard, and Thomas Fitzpatrick, Instructor.
Both bring a wealth of experience, creativity, and energy to our program. More importantly, they share a genuine passion for helping students grow, build confidence, and truly fall in love with the marching arts. We can’t wait for our performers to learn from and be inspired by their leadership this season.
Marching Gear Orders (Due May 3)
To complete the marching uniform, all winds and percussion members must have:
Black marching shoes
Gloves (winds only)
Important details:
These are required and not included in band fees
Orders are due May 3
A group order will be placed (allow ~2 weeks for delivery)
Pickup details will be shared once items arrive
Additional uniform notes:
Black crew socks are required (purchased on your own)
Plain black only, no logos or colored toe/heel
Percussion: no gloves
Drum Majors: white gloves only
Color Guard Specific:
No marching shoes or gloves required
Guard specific shoes and gear will be presented by your instructors during clinic and auditions.
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Parent/Band Family Prep
After the parent meeting you will be invited into your specific marching section groups. You will have a Parent Volunteer to lead your group. These are seasoned veterans and will be able to manage your questions and be your mentor.
Download the Band App
2026 Marching Parents Group Link: https://band.us/n/ada4b85bXd05t
Volunteer Expectations
Parents, guardians, and representatives of every Marching Miller play a vital role in our success.
Volunteer support is required throughout the season
You are the glue that holds this team together
Without this support, many aspects of the program simply would not be possible
Explore the different committees and teams to find the best fit
Learn the scope of work and jump in where your time and talents align
A great way to build relationships and strengthen our band community
Volunteers working directly with students must complete a Level 3 background check If you have not yet completed this requirement, please apply now
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EVENTS & DETAILS
April 30, May 4, May 5
Uniform Fittings + Individual Photos
During these rehearsal days, students will:
Be fitted for their marching uniform
Take individual photos with Tenth Street Photography
These photos will be used for:
Senior banners
Buttons
CODE: NHSB26
Difference between Preorder vs Proofing
PREORDER - Orders are placed BEFORE photos are taken. WE choose the BEST image to process your PREPAY order. You DO NOT see the photo before ordering. This allows for faster turn around time and best pricing options
PROOFING - Available 7-10 days after photo day. You are able to view and order photos. This option has a longer process time.
Families that do not preorder, can view and order from proofs. Please look for the flyer that will go home with your student on photo day! Please scan the QR Code on the form and enter your contact information to receive notifications about proof ordering. Proof images are usually available 7-10 days after photo day.
Fitting & Picture Days by Class
Winds & Percussion
April 30 - Juniors & Seniors
May 4 - Sophomores & Freshman
May 5 - Make up day for those that may have missed previously
Guard
April 30 - Welcome new directors! TT & TF will give you directions and details for pictures and uniforms. No Pictures or Fitting.
May 4 - Sophomores & Freshman
May 5 - Juniors & Seniors
Color Guard Clinic & Auditions
Open to grades 8–12 (including incoming freshmen)
No experience needed
April 30 & May 4 | 5:00–8:00 PM – Clinic
May 5 | 5:00–8:00 PM – Auditions
Enter through Gate 30
Wear comfortable clothes and come ready to learn
May 19
Marching Band Parent Meeting
7:00 PM | NHS Cafeteria (Enter Gate 1)
This is your launch point into the 2026 season.
We know marching band can feel like a lot at first. This meeting is designed to walk you through everything, answer questions, and give you a clear picture of what’s ahead.
Learn how the season works
Meet other band parents
Explore committees and volunteer opportunities
Get connected and stay in the loop
And honestly… this is where it starts to get fun. Parents who jump in, meet people, and get involved end up having just as much fun as the students. This program runs on community, and this is your chance to find your people.
May 22
Student Social
Marching Band Kickoff Party
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Teter Retreat: 10980 E 221st St, Noblesville, IN 46062
A relaxed night for students to connect before the big weekend.
Cookout
Social time
Meet new friends and reconnect with teammates
May 23
Our first major performance of the season.
All-day commitment
Attendance is mandatory
Performing for over 200,000 spectators
Festival event coordinators will send specific details related to us the first week of May.
Director Thornbury will send an email with itinerary and details after communication from event coordinators.
We’re representing Noblesville in a big way. Let’s show up strong.
Uniform:
Full uniform expected
Weather may shift us to summer uniform (shirt, black shorts, ball cap provided)
Black socks and marching shoes required in all cases
Extras:
Optional, but a great keepsake
July 2
Parent Social
5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Noblesville Schools Community Center: 1775 Field Dr, Noblesville, IN 46060
Marching Band Parent Social is your chance to connect with fellow band families, swap the stories that only marching band can create, and get more plugged into the season ahead. Enjoy light refreshments, great conversation, and be first in line for 50/50 raffle tickets.
Sept. 10
Contest 101
7:00 PM
Noblesville High School
Get a quick inside look at the Noblesville Marching Millers and how competitions work. We’ll cover judging basics and the impact of audience etiquette. What to do (and not do) to help our students perform their best. Perfect for new and returning families alike.
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Fundraising Opportunities
It takes an army to move a marching band, and that takes resources.
The fundraising opportunities below help students earn toward their individual band fees while also supporting the program as a whole, allowing us to continue performing and competing at a high level.
We appreciate your support in making it all possible.
Now – May 8
An easy win… and something everyone actually uses.
High-quality, heavy-duty trash bags
$5 per roll goes directly to your student account
How to Order:
Online: https://buybags.trashbagfundraiser.com
Group ID: NHSBAND
Paper forms: Turn in to the black box outside Thornbury’s office by May 8 at 3:30 PM
Pickup:
May 21 | 4:00–6:30 PM
After the Spring Concert
Band hallway (enter Gate 29)
Questions:
Carrie Dolanfundraising@noblesvilleband.org | (317) 373-1221
May 17
11:00 AM – 6:00 PM | NHS Gym
The gym transforms into a full mattress showroom for one day only.
Mattresses for every budget
Pillows, sheets, and accessories available
No retail store markup
Every purchase supports the band
Bring family and friends. It’s a simple way to support the program while getting something you actually need.
July 25
Community Car Wash
Time: TBA
Tractor Supply Company (TSC) Noblesville
2375 Pleasant St, Noblesville, IN 46060
Our Community Car Wash is a fun, team-driven way for students to raise funds while supporting the band program.
Students sign up for designated “work” shifts (sign up to come)
Funds raised are divided based on hours worked, with a portion supporting the overall program
Supply donations will be requested from our band family (sign-up to come)
A great opportunity for team building, working toward a shared goal, and offsetting band expenses
It’s always a blast and a great way to support both individual students and the program as a whole.
A flexible, low-pressure way to raise money.
Share your board with family and friends
Supporters donate directly
No selling required
Cash, check, or online options available
Once your board is filled, you’ve made real progress toward your band fees.
Booster provided meals on long competition and performance days. These are not included in band fees, instead the Boosters raise funds specifically for this cause. Our sponsorships come in convenient $35 packages, designed to provide 5 meals for each student. Send this information to your sphere and help us provide healthy meals, so each student is full and focused before performing.
Coming Soon
It’s back… and it’s a big one.
This is the largest 50/50 raffle supporting the Noblesville Band Program, and it plays a huge role in funding the season.
Ticket sales run July through October
Live drawing: October 8 at 7:00 PM on Facebook
Parents, this fundraiser thrives because of you.
Check out tickets
Sell within your network
Return funds and ticket stubs
More details will roll out in June, but get ready. This one makes a major impact.
Let’s Get Started
This season is moving fast, and it all starts now. From the first rehearsal, every moment matters.
Get registered. Get prepared. Get connected and let’s have an historic, memorable, amazingly wonderful 2026 marching season!
