It’s an unwritten rule in the world of entertainment - always leave them wanting more. When your feet are clapping and your toes are tapping along with the rhythm and moves of a great marching band, a 12-minute halftime show just isn’t enough.
Fortunately, the beat goes on all day and into the night at the 51st annual Land of the Sky Marching Band Festival, hosted by Enka High School on Sept. 27. It is one of the largest events of its kind in western North Carolina, with more than 30 groups scheduled to perform. The schedule features an exhibition by the host band, along with two performances by Western Carolina University’s Pride of the Mountains marching band.
“The growth of this festival is a testament to the talented young musicians and dedicated music educators in our area,” said Kevin Young, director of bands for Enka High School. “The Enka Band Boosters started Land of the Sky in 1975 with just four bands. Since then, it’s given thousands and thousands of students a chance to perform, and helped provide scholarships and instruments for the Enka Band program.”
The festival kicks off at 9:30 a.m. with members of the Enka Middle School band performing the National Anthem. Other BCS groups taking part in the festival include A.C. Reynolds, North Buncombe, Owen, and T.C. Roberson high schools.
Admission to the Land of the Sky Marching Band Festival is $12 for adults and $10 for kids ages 6 to 10. Children 5 and younger are admitted free. Parking is available at Hominy Valley Elementary, with shuttles running to the Enka High stadium. Click here for the full festival schedule.
