Less than a week remains until international marching bands competition comes to Buckhannon

News Release
July 11, 2023

BUCKHANNON — The World Association of Marching Show Bands 2023 Competition will take place from July 17- July 24, bringing in thousands of visitors and international performers for a week of activities in downtown Buckhannon.

July 17 will feature the opening of the official WAMSB gift shop at 10 a.m. and the “cruise-In” Car Show on Main Street at 6 p.m. The WAMSB gift shop will open at 9 a.m. July 18, followed by food vendors at 11 a.m. in Jawbone Park and the opening of the carnival midway at 6 p.m.

July 19 will feature all activities from the previous day and Lee Greenwood performing at the official opening ceremonies at 7 p.m. The official WAMSB field parade competition will take place at 4 p.m. July 20 followed by the drumline competition at 7:30 p.m. July 20 at WVWC’s Ross Stadium Field.

The WAMSB preliminary field competition will begin at 9 a.m. July 21 at WVWC’s Ross Stadium Field, followed by a full day of downtown activities leading to the “Music on the Main” celebration on Main Street at 8 p.m.

July 22 will formally begin at noon with the anticipated Parade of Nations, where various bands from around the world will march alongside talented West Virginia bands and national acts. In between the Parade of Nations and the final competition, downtown Buckhannon will be a hub of activity, with entertainment, carnival amusements and more to keep patrons busy.

The WAMSB final field competition will take place at 7 p.m. July 22 at WVWC’s Ross Stadium Field, with the winning band scheduled to perform during the official closing ceremonies at 7 p.m. July 23. The United State Marine Crum & Bugle Corps will also perform during the closing ceremonies.

This is only the second time in the event’s 26-year history that it has been held in the United States, and it is going to create a significant impact across the region, bringing in thousands of international participants.

This event will provide short-term economic benefits to the state and serve as an opportunity to foster long-term economic development, recurring tourism and provide an opportunity for elected officials, colleges and more to develop relationships with international dignitaries.

For information on the WAMSB World Championship activities, visit wamsb2023.com.