Morgan State University’s Magnificent Marching Machine has been selected to perform in the 137th Rose Parade in 2026.This will be the university’s first performance in the iconic parade that takes place every January in Pasadena, California, and follows another groundbreaking first: the band’s participation in the annual D-Day memorial parade, the first-ever Historically Black College or University (HBCU) to do so. The band is led by Director of Bands Jorim E. Reid Sr., D.M.A.Every year, the Pasadena Tournament of Roses selects the most unique and exceptional marching bands from around the world to participate in the Rose Parade based on various criteria, including musicianship, marching ability, and entertainment or special interest value. It’s estimated that 50 million people worldwide watch the parade, broadcast in more than 170 countries. Approximately 20-25 bands are chosen to perform, with a mix of high school, college, and community bands, and military and international groups included as well.“The selection of Morgan’s Magnificent Marching Machine to participate in the 137th Rose Parade is a major achievement, not just for our band but for the entire Morgan community. This historic opportunity allows us to showcase the exceptional talent, energy and spirit of our students on an international stage,” said David K. Wilson, president of Morgan State University. “This is an extraordinary moment of pride for Morgan, and I do not doubt that the world will be as captivated by the Magnificent Marching Machine as we are every time they take the field.”The Rose Parade is one of three “jewels” in what’s considered the “Triple Crown” of parade events: the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Rose Parade, and the U.S. Presidential Inaugural Parade. For Morgan State’s Magnificent Marching Machine, the Rose Parade will be the second of the three “jewels,” as in 2019 they marched in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade — another first for the university. The next presidential inauguration will be held in January 2025.“There’s no bigger event in the marching band world than the Rose Parade. When you perform on New Year’s Day, the eyes of the world are watching,” said Dr. Reid. “It is an honor for our university to be invited, and a great opportunity for our students and marching band program to be highlighted globally. We look forward to our turn to participate in what’s known as ‘The Granddaddy of Them All.’”The Rose Parade began in 1890, when Valley Hunt Club members sponsored the first Tournament of Roses. The abundance of flowers in the middle of winter gave them the idea to add a parade of carriages decorated with colorful blooms before the competition. It was also a late 19th-century bit of friendly west coast-east coast rivalry about the weather.“In New York, people are buried in snow,” announced Professor Charles F. Holder at a Club meeting. “Here our flowers are blooming and our oranges are about to bear. Let’s hold a festival to tell the world about our paradise.”