HARRISONBURG, VA (Rocktown Now) — High school marching bands from across Virginia will converge at Harrisonburg High School on Saturday, October 10, 2026, for the 16th Annual Shenandoah Valley Marching Invitational (SVMI), one of the state’s largest and premier marching band competitions.

Hosted by the Rock City Regiment, the combined band of Harrisonburg High School and Rocktown High School, the Invitational showcases bands presenting dynamic performances that blend music, precision marching, color guard artistry, dance, and theatrical design.

The competition gate will open for the Preliminary Performances at 9:30AM, where ensembles are evaluated by expert adjudicators in Music, Visual, General Effect, Percussion, and Color Guard. Awards will follow for Groups 1 through 6, determined by band size.

The Rock City Regiment will take the field in exhibition at 5:30 PM, leading into the Preliminary Awards Ceremony at 5:45 PM.

Evening excitement continues under the lights at 7:15 PM with the Finals Competition, featuring the class winners from each group along with high-scoring wildcard ensembles. These top bands will perform for the chance to claim overall honors, judged again in Music, Visual, General Effect, Percussion, and Color Guard.

Tickets are $12.00 for adults, $8.00 for seniors and students, and free for children 5 and under. Concessions, vendors, and ample free parking will be available on-site.

The event is located at Harrisonburg High School on 1001 Garbers Church Road in Harrisonburg.