Marching band a standout at Starlight Parade

Posted June 7, 2023

By Sal McElhaney

Staff Reporter

The school marching band has gone through many performances throughout this year, but never has one stood out like their performance at the Rose Festival Starlight Parade.

The Starlight parade is an event and part of the main event, known as the Rose Festival. It's one of the most popular events at the festival, offering varieties of electrical and funky fun for all guests, from high school marching bands to floats shining bright. 

The first Rose festival was in 1907, while the first Starlight parade was in 1976, when the whole idea of it was first introduced, states rosefestival.org. 

“Band has been something Ive done for about 8 years now,” said senior Aslan Morgan. “It's something that Im generally very passionate about. I've seen the Starlight Parade even before I became a member of the marching band. I enjoyed it and was excited to be able to march in it.” 

Walter Willard Cole, or "Darcelle” as his stage name goes, was actually serving as the Grand Marshal of the Starlight parade up until he passed away on March 23. He also received the city’s Spirit of Portland award.