Renaissance High School band plans on heading to Canada this fall to perform in the Santa Claus Parade.
RHS is participating in the parade for its third year. The parades take place in cities such as Windsor, Amherstburg, Kingsville and Essex.
The Santa Parade’s are run by the non-profit, volunteer organization called The Winsor Organization, which includes many high school bands from Michigan and Ohio.
Despite cold winter weather, the RHS band of about 100 students practices three times a week until the performance.
Band member Arezionna Andrews says the trip is worth the effort.
“It was very encouraging to see all the smiles on everyone's faces when we played all of our songs,” said Andrews.
In the parade, students play a handful of songs to entertain the crowd, with festive floats flying around them.
“We play songs like ‘Hotline Bling,’, and older songs like ‘Ring my Bell’ or ‘Crazy and Love,’” said flute player Jamal MacNear.
MacNear said he has fun ever year.
“We get to be with our friends and meet other types of people. It’s a great experience.”
The parades last from November to December, with 6 p.m. call times.
