Lemont Keepataw Day Parade to Feature Four Diverse Marching Bands

The 72nd Annual Lemont Keepataw Day Parade on Sunday, September 1, 2024, at 1 p.m. in downtown Lemont, Illinois, is poised to become an unforgettable event, featuring four distinguished marching bands that reflect a rich tapestry of tradition and excellence.

First among them is the prestigious Navy Band Great Lakes, representing more than a century of musical service and pride in the U.S. Navy. From their formation in 1911 to the leadership of the legendary John Philip Sousa, and now under Lieutenant Christopher Cornette, this band has become synonymous with the Navy’s values of professionalism and honor. The band performs widely, supporting both naval ceremonies and community events across the Midwest. Leading the band for the Lemont Keepataw Day Parade will be Unit Leader MU2 Charles “Joe” McNure. The Lemont VFW Post 5819 played a crucial role in securing the Navy Band Great Lakes, adding a layer of prestige to this year’s event.

Also joining the parade and hailing as one of the oldest continuous pipe bands in the U.S. is the Chicago Stock Yard Kilty Band, led by Pipe Major Matt McKee. The band was formed in 1921 by Scottish immigrants Robert and James Sim. Rooted in the historic Union Stock Yards of Chicago, the band’s legacy and sound resonate with audiences today.

The parade will also feature the award-winning Lemont High School Marching Band, under the direction of Lemont High School Fine Arts Chair Dave Nommensen and Music Teacher Ben Clemons. The band has consistently achieved top honors, including multiple years of accolades at the Illinois State Marching Band Championship. Their contributions to the parade highlight the Lemont community's strong tradition of musical excellence. In addition to their parade performance, the Lemont High School Marching Band performs at every home football game and competes locally throughout September and October. Their competitive performance for 2024 is entitled “Deep Freeze.” For a full schedule of their performances and competitions, visit their website.

Leading the District 113-A Band is Frank Alongi, a seasoned Chicago musician and educator. Alongi’s diverse experience, including performances with high-profile artists like Bruno Mars, enriches the parade’s musical offerings. His role as Director of Bands at Old Quarry Middle School in Lemont underscores his commitment to fostering the next generation of musicians.

Parade Chair and former Grand Marshal Beverly Marzec expressed her delight in having such a diverse and accomplished lineup, noting that it has been years since the parade featured four bands. The return of the four-band lineup is a significant milestone, representing the organizers' dedicated efforts to restore the parade to its former pre-pandemic glory and provide the Lemont community with a vibrant celebration of music and tradition.

The parade promises to be a testament to Lemont's enduring community spirit, showcasing a blend of local talent, historic traditions, and military honor that will resonate with attendees long after the final note is played.

The 72nd Annual Lemont Keepataw Day Parade will commence at 1 p.m. Sunday, September 1, 2024, in downtown Lemont, followed by a Fun Fest at 2 p.m. in the Metra parking lot. The festival promises a day full of enjoyment with live bands, food and beverage vendors, an artisan market, and a variety of family-friendly activities.

The Fun Fest band lineup includes 90s rock band Grungeworthy from 2 to 4:30 p.m., classic rock band Anthem from 5 to 7:30 p.m., and cover band headliner Maggie Speaks from 8 to 11 p.m.

For more information on the parade route and festival, visit Lemont Keepataw Day.