GREENVILLE, N.C., Oct. 8 -- East Carolina University issued the following press release:
GREENVILLE, N.C. (10/08/2026) - The East Carolina University Marching Pirates will take center stage in the 101st Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City in 2027.
The announcement was revealed as a surprise to members of the Marching Pirates at the conclusion of rehearsal Wednesday evening. ECU was selected from an estimated 100 bands nationwide to participate in the Thanksgiving Day tradition.
ECU Chancellor Philip Rogers was present for the presentation and congratulated the band.
"I had no idea how emotional it would make me feel to see you all feel so happy and excited. This is a big deal," said Rogers.
"There are so many times in the l...