UPDATE: Williston Bands withdrawing from Band Day Parade, event will continue

WILLISTON, N.D. (KUMV) - UPDATE (5/13/23 at 9:30 a.m.): The Band Day parade will continue as scheduled in Williston, but with fewer bands than expected.

The band directors of the Williston Basin School District say they will not march, citing weather conditions.

High School Band Director John Bisbee told Your News Leader several other out-of-town bands have also decided not to march.

Sabrina Ramey, the event communications coordinator for the Convention and Visitors Bureau, said the event will go on with limited bands.

Percussionists will still be able to perform with the Denver Broncos Stampede Drumline, who are headlining this year’s parade.

Bisbee said they will instead hold a “Band Day Show and Tell” event at the High School on Sunday at 4 p.m. to showcase each school’s marching ensembles.

“We want to give our students an opportunity to show off their work in the classroom, as well as give our seniors one final opportunity to wear the full band uniform,” said John Bisbee, Williston High School band director.

ORIGINAL STORY (5/12/23 at 7 p.m.): Williston’s Band Day Parade is still on for Saturday afternoon.

Sabrina Ramey, the event communications coordinator for the Convention and Visitors Bureau, said vendors and live concerts would move to the Agri Sports Complex following the parade.

Lineup will start around 10:45 a.m., with the parade at noon.

The event will start at the Williston ARC up to 2nd Avenue West and end at Harmon Park.

Bismarck had to cancel its Band Day Parade Friday due to inclement weather.