The James F. Byrnes High School Rebel Regiment is once again headed to the national stage! The award-winning marching band has been selected to perform in the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, marking its fourth appearance in the iconic New York City event.
Chosen from a highly competitive pool of more than 100 applicants nationwide, the Rebel Regiment will represent South Carolina as one of just ten marching bands invited to perform in the 2026 Parade—an honor that places Byrnes among an elite group of bands from across the country.
The exciting news was shared with students earlier this week in a moment they’ll never forget. Band Director Chris Moss gathered members of the Rebel Regiment for what they believed was a routine meeting about upcoming trips. As he began reviewing “rules and regulations,” a playful slide presentation slowly revealed the letters spelling out “MACY’S.” The room erupted in cheers as students realized they would once again be marching in the world-famous Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Adding to the celebration, a local Macy’s representative surprised the group by presenting the Rebel Regiment’s drum majors with a $10,000 check—a grant from Macy’s to help kick-start fundraising efforts for their 2026 trip to New York City.
“This is an incredible opportunity for our students and a tremendous point of pride for our entire community,” said Moss. “Since our first appearance in 1983, this Parade has been part of the Byrnes Band story. Our alumni still talk about the life-changing experience of marching down the streets of New York City. I’m thrilled that today’s students will get to continue that legacy in such a historic year.”
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, which began in 1924, is one of America’s most treasured traditions—watched by millions around the world each Thanksgiving morning. In 2026, as the Parade celebrates its centennial, the Rebel Regiment will bring its signature energy, precision, and theatrical flair to the streets of Manhattan and into living rooms nationwide.
“Macy’s is delighted to welcome the students of James F. Byrnes High School back to the Parade for this milestone celebration,” said Sara Flores, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Associate Producer. “Their passion, talent, and spirit will shine brightly as they perform for audiences across the country.”
As the countdown begins to the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, the Rebel Regiment is ready to take its place in history—celebrating a tradition that has inspired generations and creating new memories that will last a lifetime.