The Bowling Green State University Falcon Marching Band took over the historic Lake Erie island village of Put-In-Bay, Ohio, on Aug. 2, filling the air with music as part of the Declaration 250 event.

As part of the Declaration 250 event, the Falcon Marching Band (FMB) – one of the nation’s largest – traveled aboard the Miller Ferry and made their presence known when they performed the BGSU fight song upon pulling up to shore.

FMB was one of only two college marching bands to perform during the unique program, which featured a military flyover, a concert by Grammy Award-winning artist Lee Greenwood and more.

Under the direction of internationally known music educator and band director Jon Waters, 375 members of the Falcon Marching Band performed patriotic music, BGSU school songs and marched in a parade through the village’s picturesque streets.

The event concluded with a sunset performance by the Falcon Marching Band concert at Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial.

University videographer Ben Boutwell '24, student videographers Noah Walter and Jackson Triggs, photographer Jennifer Beachy, social media strategist Bailey Weaver '25 and student intern Leah Raymond captured the celebration and performances in Put-In-Bay.

Recognized as one of the nation’s standout college bands, the BGSU band will follow up their Put-In-Bay performance when they join high school, military and other bands from around the world in the 2027 Rose Parade on New Year’s Day ahead of the internationally watched Rose Bowl Game in Pasadena, California.

As one of the largest collegiate marching bands in the country, the Falcon Marching Band is no stranger to the world stage. Previously, the marching band performed in the 2025 St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin, Ireland, where it was one of only three college marching bands worldwide to take part in the renowned parade, which draws millions of spectators each year.

The Falcon Marching Band is the largest student organization at BGSU and comprises nearly 80% non-music majors.