City of Fairfax Firefighters Help Marching Lions Cool Off in Annual Band Camp Tradition

After weeks of long rehearsals under the August sun, members of the Fairfax High School Marching Lions got a much-needed—and much-anticipated—chance to cool off thanks to the City of Fairfax Fire Department.

The department recently visited Fairfax High School for the band's annual band camp cool down, a decades-long tradition that has become a favorite part of marching band camp for students.

With instruments safely put away, band members gathered on the practice field as firefighters turned on the water. Within moments, students were soaked, laughing and enjoying a well-earned break from rehearsals.

"Our students put an incredible amount of work into marching band camp, and the cool down is something they look forward to every year," said Joe Jost, President of the Fairfax High School Band Boosters. "We're incredibly grateful to the City of Fairfax Fire Department for continuing this tradition. It's a fun way to celebrate the students' hard work and a great example of the community support that means so much to our band program."

The annual cool down is a fun way to celebrate the hard work students put into marching band camp. During camp, members spend their days learning music, marching fundamentals, drill and choreography as they begin putting together their fall competition show.

This year's Fairfax Marching Lions production, "Immortal," features a dark, theatrical vampire-inspired theme and music including Toccata in D Minor, Danse Macabre, My Immortal and Bring Me to Life.

While the cool down only lasts a short time, it has become one of those band camp moments students look forward to each summer—and another example of the strong connection between the Fairfax High School Band and the City of Fairfax community.

The Fairfax High School Band extends its thanks to the City of Fairfax Fire Department for taking time out of its day to continue this special tradition and give the Marching Lions a memorable way to cool off after their hard work.

Founded in 1948, the Fairfax High School Bands program includes students participating in Concert Bands, Marching Band, Color Guard, Drumline and Jazz Band.

Learn more about the Fairfax High School Bands and follow the Marching Lions throughout their 2026 season at fhsbands.org.