2025 Pepsi National Battle of the Bands Unites HBCU Pride and Katy’s Marching Band Momentum Ahead of Legacy Stadium Contest
In Katy ISD, fall marks the start of marching band season. But before local students take the field at the 40th Annual Katy Marching Contest on October 11 at Legacy Stadium, many will head to NRG Stadium this Saturday, August 23, for a different kind of performance—one that will inspire, educate, and connect them through the powerful legacy of HBCU excellence.
The 2025 Pepsi National Battle of the Bands (NBOTB) returns to Houston with powerhouse performances from eight Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), including local legends Prairie View A&M’s Marching Storm and Texas Southern University's Ocean of Soul.
This year’s theme—“Beyond the Notes | Music Is the Culture”—honors both the musical artistry and the deeper cultural influence of HBCU bands. For many Katy students and parents, it’s a chance to experience world-class showmanship and connect with the traditions that shape collegiate music programs across the South.
The inspiration comes at just the right time. In 2024, Seven Lakes High School’s Marching Band advanced all the way to the UIL State Marching Band Championships in San Antonio, performing their hauntingly creative show, “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” on the Alamodome stage. Their success—and that of other Katy ISD bands—has raised the bar heading into the new season.
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Marching Toward the Future—On and Off the Field
The NBOTB weekend isn’t just for music lovers—it’s a college pipeline moment for students across Katy and Fulshear. The HBCU College & Career Fair at the NRG Center on Saturday afternoon offers face-to-face time with recruiters, admissions advisors, and scholarship programs, making it a perfect outing for families exploring future education opportunities.
The free Fan Experience also includes a live performance by Flippa T, a Stroll Off competition, vendors, and a celebration of HBCU culture. Earlier in the day, community members are invited to participate in the Feeding the Homeless initiative at St. Joseph Clubhouse, a reminder that service and culture go hand-in-hand.
“Music Is the Culture pays homage to the icons and traditions that paved the way for HBCU marching bands today,” said Derek Webber, CEO of Webber Marketing and Executive Producer of NBOTB.
2025 Participating Bands
- Prairie View A&M – Marching Storm
- Texas Southern – Ocean of Soul
- Jackson State – Sonic Boom of the South
- Florida A&M – The Marching "100"
- North Carolina A&T – Blue & Gold Marching Machine
- Alabama A&M – Marching Maroon & White
- Langston University – Marching Pride Band
- Albany State – Marching Rams Show Band
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Event Details
- Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025
- Time: 4:30 PM (main event), with free Fan Experience from 12 PM – 3:30 PM
- Location: NRG Stadium, 1 NRG Pkwy, Houston, TX 77054
- Tickets: nationalbattleofthebands.com/tickets
General admission, group sales, and VIP suite packages are available. Attendees are encouraged to buy early due to high demand and limited seating for this nationally recognized event.
Parking for all NBOTB events is available at NRG Park, with pre-paid options and ADA accommodations clearly marked on nrgpark.com. Don’t forget that NRG Stadium enforces a strict Clear Bag Policy: approved bags include a 12"x6"x12" clear tote, a one-gallon Ziploc-style bag, or a small clutch no larger than 4.5"x6.5".
For families attending the HBCU College & Career Fair, it’s recommended to bring a list of questions, relevant documents, and prepare for on-site engagement with multiple universities and scholarship programs.
As Katy’s young musicians prepare to showcase their talents this fall, the National Battle of the Bands offers more than a weekend of entertainment—it’s a reminder that tradition, excellence, and community can shape a future far beyond the field.
Stay tuned to My Neighborhood News for more updates on marching band season in Katy ISD—and don’t miss local coverage of the upcoming Katy Marching Contest this fall.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
