On November 19, 2005, Arcadia hosted some of the best high school bands throughout Southern California at the 52nd Festival of Bands.Over 5000 students marched down Baldwin Avenue in competition. The parade started with the dignitaries at about 8:30 am and the bands at about 9:00. The route is from Huntington Dr to Duarte Rd., turning the corner to pass the Rose parade Judge stand and then to disband. This is a great event to show off the children to all those grandparents, aunts, uncles, neighbors and friends who have been hearing about “the parade block” and “the field show”.

The Festival of Bands is hosted by the students, faculty and staff of Arcadia high School and the parents and community volunteers of the Arcadia Music Club. Proceeds from the Festival go towards instrumental music programs at all levels in the Arcadia Unified School district. This traditional event is renowned throughout Southern California.