State & Waukee Marching Invitational (WMI)
October 17, 2026
Waukee High School
General Information
Daytime Overview of Events
Waukee Stadium is the host site for the State Marching Contest for the Iowa High School Music Association (IHSMA) South Central Region. This usually occurs on the third Saturday in October. The first band steps off at 8:00 a.m. and the last band is usually done around 4:45 p.m. The WBPO is involved in all aspects of the event from ticket sales, concessions, equipment moving, etc.
State Marching Band Festival Ticket Prices
Adults: $12
Senior Citizens (62+): $7
K-12 Students: $5
Preschool and younger: Free
Families may purchase their tickets ahead of time using the IHSMA ticketing portal, which will open State Marching Band tickets on October 1st.
Please note that the day State Marching Festival and the evening Waukee Marching Invitational (WMI) are two separate events.
At the conclusion of the State Festival the stadium will need to be cleared to prepare for WMI.
Entrance into WMI will require a separate ticket to be purchased.
Evening Overview of Events
At the conclusion of the State contest, we do a quick transition to get ready for the Waukee Marching Invitational (WMI). This event has been a primary fundraiser for the BPO for many years. A maximum of 18 bands perform at this competition with the Waukee Band performing in exhibition. The first band steps off at 5:30 p.m. At the end of the event, the seniors for each of the performing bands along with the drum majors are all lined up on the field for the awards ceremony. After awards, all participants and attendees are treated to a short fireworks show to conclude the event.
Waukee Marching Invitational (WMI) Ticket Prices
Admission: $15
Children 5 and under: Free
Spectators attending WMI will receive a wristband once admitted. We highly encourage you to order your tickets ahead of time using our Vanco link to expedite your entry into the stadium, and we will also accept cash or card.