The Fresno State Bulldog Marching Band, which dazzled audiences at the 2023 Rose Parade, is set to return to Pasadena for the 136th Rose Parade on Wednesday morning. Selected as one of 20 participants, the band will perform under the theme “Best Day Ever.”

In 2023, the 270-member ensemble turned heads with its energetic performance of “Hey Pachuco” at the Colorado Boulevard corner. KTLA hosts Leeza Gibbons and Mark Steines praised the band, with Steines saying, “I want to get in my car and drive to Fresno right now!”

Related Story: Fresno State Coaches JD Williams, Aaron Prier to Stay on Staff Under Entz

“We are thrilled the Bulldog Marching Band will represent Fresno State again,” said Dr. Honora Chapman, dean of the College of Arts and Humanities. “Millions of people around the world will be able to hear the musical pride of the Valley play, and we hope that many Bulldogs will join us in Pasadena to cheer them on.”

Director Steve McKeithen added, “We are honored by this recognition and look forward to raising the bar for our second Rose Parade appearance.”

The Bulldog Marching Band is the university’s largest student organization. It has performed globally, including the 2023 St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin, Ireland.

Related Story: Fresno State Hires New Defensive Coordinator Nick Benedetto

Where to Watch the Rose Bowl?

The Rose Bowl will host a thrilling matchup as the top-seeded Oregon Ducks (13-0) face off against the No. 8 Ohio State Buckeyes (11-2) in the quarterfinals of the College Football Playoffs. Kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m. PT.

Fans can start their day with the annual Rose Parade, airing live on NBC and ABC, before turning their attention to one of college football’s biggest games. The Rose Bowl will be broadcast on ESPN.

The Ducks (13-0, CFP No. 1 seed) defeated the Buckeyes (11-2, CFP No. 8 seed) in a Big Ten regular season game by a score of 32-31 in Eugene, Oregon.

—

Connect with Anthony W. Haddad on social media. Got a tip? Send an email.