Last Saturday, the Bainbridge Band had the honor of performing at the 2015 Fiesta Flambeau Parade in San Antonio, Texas, where thousands of spectators cheered as the Bearcats marched and performed through downtown.

The parade took place during the night, and the band dressed their uniforms and their instruments in lights to add to the atmosphere of their performance.

“The people were really friendly and so hospitable,” drum major Grace McIntosh said. “They welcomed us during the parade on the side of the street and spoke to us.”

The band left by bus Wednesday evening and arrived in San Antonio early Thursday morning. With two days until the parade, the group was able to explore the city, experience its history and have fun.

“I loved the history, like the Alamo,” Charley Rayfield said.

The band also got to have fun at Six Flags Fiesta Texas and check out Sea World. But Saturday night when the parade started was the most enjoyable part, McIntosh said.

“I’d say everyone was excited to see a band from Georgia there,” she said. “All the lights. Definitely the highlight.”

The Fiesta Flambeau Parade, which celebrated its 65th year anniversary last Saturday, is the oldest night parade in the U.S.

Band director Paschal Ward said the crowd was between 6,000-7,000 people, and they were some of the friendliest the band has performed for.

“It was very enjoyable and extremely educational,” Ward said.

The band arrived back in Bainbridge around 3 a.m. Monday morning.