The La Porte High School Marching Band will represent the Lions Clubs of the State of Indiana in the International Lions Clubs Parade of Nations to be held July 1 in downtown Chicago. An estimated 10,000 Lions from around the world will be participating in the 100th annual parade. La Porte will perform the parade twice with both the country of India and the State of Indiana. Lions Clubs from a total of 152 states and foreign countries will be participating in the parade which is a part of the annual International Lions Clubs Convention.
Each year, Lions from as many as 130 countries participate in the annual procession on the second day of the convention, a tradition dating back to the early 1920's. The parade is an opportunity for Lions to display their enthusiasm for the association and their national heritage. Many Lions don traditional dress, colors or costumes representing their native lands for the march. Bands and floats are also included in the parade.
The parade route travels south on State Street beginning at Lake Street and ending at Van Buren Street. Ample viewing areas are available along State Street. Following the parade, the band will be treated to a dinner at Rainforest Café followed by a Beach Boys concert that is part of the convention.
The LPMB has represented La Porte and the State of Indiana on several occasions at prestigious events including Disney World performances and the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Parade.