Omaha Central’s marching band propelled up Underwood Avenue on Aug. 24, their fight song ringing through the crowd. In unison, the band and color guard highlighted the school’s presence as they marched, played and twirled along the parade route, as a part of the Dundee Day festivities.
Their engagement has become an anticipated aspect of the annual event, as purple floods the Dundee streets and engulfs the community with a passion for Central.
It is also a display of Central band and color guard pride, as dozens of Central students volunteer their time to be at the morning celebration and perform. They walked alongside groups of politicians, businesses and other school representatives.
Senior Nell Farrington has participated in the parade for four straight years as a marching band member. Farrington was born and raised in Dundee, and enjoys recognizing friends, family and neighbors along the parade route. “It is very heartwarming to see everyone love the band, as much as we do playing in the band,” Farrington said.
Marching band is an expression of Central’s heart and soul. As students chant “Go Central Go! Go Central Go!”, children of all ages danced, sang, and watched in awe.
For many Dundee families, the younger children will grow up to become Central students. Senior Owen Fuesel said, “We hope they have a little spark, and want to follow in our footsteps, and join the Omaha Central marching band!”
The family-friendly parade draws thousands of midtown locals annually. Many are students, teachers or Central alumni who can sing and dance along to their alma mater’s fight song and other classic renditions.
Senior Emma Garabrandt reflected on the time and effort the music programs put into their productions. Parades, like Dundee Days, are fun ways for music students to volunteer and perform. “It pays off when we are able to perform for our community, which we have grown up in,” Garabrandt said.
The initial inspiration for the Dundee Day parade began in 2000, when Dundee Dell relocated from its Dodge Street location to Underwood Avenue. Dundee Day Coordinator Eric Kaplan said, “The Dell, rather than hiring movers, asked all their regular patrons to help them move, creating a parade of stools, tables, chairs and equipment north along 50th Street.”
Since then, Dundee Day and its parade have been a constant event for community members to enjoy.
