Marching Band Parade Competition

Join Us for the 2025 Mt. Vernon Fall Fest Parade Band Expo!
On behalf of the City of Mt. Vernon and Mt. Vernon Festivals, Inc., we are thrilled to invite you and your students to be part of the 2025 Mt. Vernon Fall Fest Parade!

✨ Mark your calendars:
  Saturday, September 27, 2025
⏰ Parade step-off: 1:00 p.m.

This year marks our 13th year offering adjudication, awards, and cash prizes for marching bands — and we would love for you to be part of one of Southern Illinois' most exciting festivals!

 
Who Can Participate?
We welcome high school and junior high / middle school bands of all sizes.
Bands will compete in the following divisions:

High Schools, 250+ enrollment
High Schools, 249 or fewer enrollment
Junior High / Middle Schools (open class, all sizes)
 

✅ Divisions & Awards

High School (250+ enrollment)
High School (249 or fewer enrollment)
Junior High / Middle School (open class)
Prizes per division:
1st – $500 | ? 2nd – $250* | ? 3rd – $100*
(*based on minimum participation)

Overall Grand Champion – $1,000 (may adjust if <8 bands entered)

 
Why You Should Join
✔ Perform in front of an enthusiastic community crowd
✔ Get valuable adjudicated feedback
✔ Compete for great prizes
✔ Celebrate your band’s hard work at one of the best fall festivals in the region!

 
We can’t wait to see you there!
Bring your music, your talent, and your school spirit — and help make this year’s Mt. Vernon Fall Fest Parade the most memorable yet!

✅ Expo Performance

Judges will be located on the north side of the Jefferson County Courthouse
Entries must keep moving throughout parade. Do not stop to perform for judges
Judged on: music, marching, general effect, overall presentation
 
✅ Arrival & Check-in

Send your cell phone number to Nat Shook, Band Organizer, at Nat@uwsci.org
Check in at the parade office upon arrival for line-up info and updates
 
✅ Conduct & Safety

Adult supervision required
No throwing items from floats/bands
 
✅ Other Notes

Register by September 12, 2025
Bring your own equipment/props
Event photos/videos may be used in promotions
Questions? Contact:
Angela Schrum | angela.schrum@mtvernon.com | (618) 242-3151