Detroit Catholic Central High School’s Band Department received extraordinary news that will send the Shamrocks across the Atlantic.

During a special band assembly held February 23, 2026, in front of the entire student body, the Catholic Central Marching Band was formally invited to perform in the 2027 London New Year’s Parade.

The invitation was extended in person by Bob Bone, founder and chair of some of Europe’s most prestigious turn-of-the-year traditions. Bone, who also founded major street and performance spectaculars in Rome, Edinburgh, Paris, and Maastricht, traveled to Novi to personally deliver the honor. He was accompanied by Senior Consultant for the Americas, Dean Oblonsky.

“I am delighted to be able to invite the band to perform in such a prestigious parade,” Bone said. “Their reputation precedes them. They will receive the warmest of welcomes as London has fallen in love with the marching band phenomenon.”

The London New Year's Day Parade, formerly known as London’s New Year’s Day Parade, celebrated its 40th anniversary this year. The internationally televised event is broadcast live around the world and screened across the United States on the PBS network.

Partnered by BBC London, the parade regularly attracts more than 500,000 spectators to the streets of London’s West End and reaches more than 1,000 television stations globally.

More than 8,000 participants from numerous nations are expected to march along the iconic two-mile route, which passes historic landmarks including The Ritz London, Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, and Westminster Abbey, concluding just yards from Big Ben.

“I am extremely proud of the hard work the band is putting forth! I look forward to having the opportunity for the band to perform on the world stage at the London New Year's Day Parade to share their artistry and love of music. I am also excited for them to experience the culture and history of London,” stated Musical Director Alex Toth '17. 

As the band begins preparations for 2027, the school community looks forward to supporting the students as they represent Catholic Central on one of the world’s most celebrated stages.

The countdown to London has officially begun.