Pride of the Dakotas Marching Band

This Thanksgiving, The Pride of the Dakotas will represent South Dakota State University in the Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade.

More than 300 Jackrabbit students will travel to Chicago, performing for hundreds of thousands of spectators in one of the country’s largest holiday parades. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent SDSU, showcase their talent, and share the energy and spirit of The Pride on a national stage.

But the experience goes far beyond the parade route.

Students will spend several days in Chicago, exploring a world-class city, visiting iconic destinations like Millennium Park and the Museum of Science and Industry, and engaging with new ideas and perspectives connected to their academic interests.

For many, this will be their first time in a major metropolitan area. It is an opportunity to build confidence, strengthen friendships, and see how their passions connect to a broader world — all while representing SDSU.

But experiences like this come at a cost.

It takes $1,500 to support one student’s trip to Chicago.

Your gift directly helps make this journey possible. It provides travel, lodging, meals, and the resources needed for students to perform with excellence and confidence.

When you give, you are not just supporting a performance. You are investing in a transformative experience that shapes students as leaders, teammates, and ambassadors for South Dakota State University.

Thank you for supporting The Pride of the Dakotas!