There is no single DeWitt band uniform.

Competitive marching bands and drum corps have largely moved from a fixed traditional uniform to a costume designed for each year's show. DeWitt made that move years ago. The costume is part of the show's design, the same way the music and the drill are, and it changes every season.

The rule

The band performs in show costume at home football games when the marching band class is in session and the costume has arrived.

The exceptions, and why

• Before school starts: the costume is built for this year's show and arrives on the show's timeline. Games played before the first day of school are before the costume exists.

• After the marching band class ends (playoffs): we are on a block schedule. The class is over, equipment and costumes are stored for the year, and students cannot be required to attend. When the band does play a playoff game, it's whoever can come, in spirit wear.

• Night before a competition in bad weather: in 2016, a rainy Friday home game preceded State Finals the next morning with no way to dry 128 costumes in time. We won't risk a championship performance for a football game.

• Recruiting nights: when 8th graders perform with the band, the band dresses like them so they are part of it, not next to it. Homecoming this year was that night.

What this program has done in this model

Two Michigan state championships (2021, 2023). Grown from about 40 members to more than 150 program wide. A 128-member competitive band performing at the national level.

2026 attire by game - what's left

• [August 27 vs Kenowa Hills— spirit wear — before first day of school; costume not yet arrived [game moved off campus]
• September 11 vs Everett— spirit wear — costume arrived, student sizing not completed
• October 9 — spirit wear — Homecoming; 8th graders performed with the band
• October 23 vs Okemos — show costume — Senior Night
• Playoff games — spirit wear, voluntary attendance

Want to help?

The band welcomes volunteers. Contact volunteers@dewittbands.org.