Historic Sixth Appearance Will Make Pickerington the Ohio Band Program With the Most Rose Parade Appearances
September 22, 2026
From Pickerington Local School District
Pickerington, OH – The invitation was revealed during the Pickerington Band Festival at Pickerington High School North, where the two Pickerington bands were joined by visiting marching bands from neighboring school districts. Students were surprised with a video message from 2028 Tournament of Roses President Pam Knapp inviting them to participate in the January 1, 2028, parade. Each student also received a red rose to celebrate the occasion.
The 2028 appearance will mark the sixth Tournament of Roses Parade for the Pickerington Bands, following previous appearances in 1993, 1997, 2006, 2010 and 2019. According to Tournament of Roses documentation, the 2028 appearance will make Pickerington the Ohio band program with the most appearances in the parade’s history.
“Receiving this invitation is an incredible honor for our students, directors, and the entire Pickerington community,” said Music Coordinator/Band Director Dr. Marc Parulekar. “Returning to Pasadena for a historic sixth time is a testament to the decades of dedication, hard work, and musical excellence that define our band program. Marching down Colorado Boulevard is a life-changing experience, and we are thrilled to begin this journey together as a unified Pickerington team.”
The invitation continues a longstanding Rose Parade tradition within Pickerington Local Schools. More than 30 current District music and school staff members have previously participated in a Tournament of Roses Parade as students, directors or collegiate band members.
The 2028 parade will also bring several full-circle and family moments to Pasadena. Pickerington High School North Director Matthew Guirreri, who served as a field commander when the Pickerington Bands performed in the 1997 parade, will return as a director. Pickerington High School Central Director Nathan Stowe will have both of his children, Claire, a horn/mellophone player, and Eli, a trombone player, performing in the parade. Guirreri’s children, Johnny, a tuba player, and Mia, a banner carrier, will also participate.
The Pickerington Bands will spend the coming months preparing for the 2028 parade, including coordinating schedules, fundraising and travel arrangements.