WFISD band invited to perform in London's 2026 New Year's Day Parade

WICHITA FALLS ( KFDX/KJTL ) — Memorial and Legacy High School bands are getting a big opportunity.

They've been invited to perform at one of the world's most iconic events, London's New Year's Day parade.

The invitation is a rare honor extended to select student bands, and it will allow the young musicians to showcase their talents on an international stage.

Students will march and perform in the iconic parade in front of over 8,000 people and experience a whole week immersed in London's rich history and culture.

They will visit world-renowned museums, tour historic sites, and marvel at landmarks of architectural and artistic significance.

The parade's founder, Bob Bones, came from London to personally invite these students and said they wanted only the best bands to perform in the parade and that WFISD fits that mold.

"We're a pretty big deal. But the thing is, we only want the very, very best bands to come to our event. And without a shadow of a doubt, these kids in Wichita Falls are the best," Bones said.

Not only are the best of the best expected to perform, but the students will perform for a massive audience standing in the streets and broadcast around the world, surpassing millions.

"We have more than 8,500 people from 26 countries around the world participating in the event. To a street audience of well over half a million, nearly three-quarters of a million, and a TV audience around the world of 340 million people," Bones said.

Be on the lookout for upcoming fundraising events to help fund the trip. We'll keep you updated as the students approach their big London debut!