Relive the Glory. Reconnect with the Family. Reignite the Sound.
Each fall, we roll out the purple carpet for one of our most beloved traditions - MRD Alumni Band Weekend.
It's a time to come home to Harrisonburg, reunite with old friends, dust off your horn or flag (or we'll provide one for you), and be part of the band all over again. Whether you’re fresh out of JMU or decades into your alumni journey, Alumni Band Weekend brings together Dukes from every era to celebrate the spirit, sound, and pride of the Marching Royal Dukes. Scroll down to book a hotel, purchase game tickets, register and more. |
Event detailsDATE:
Fri. Nov. 27 — Sun. Nov. 29, 2026 WHO:
MRD Alumni, friends and families welcome. WHERE:
James Madison University |
WHAT TO EXPECT:
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Follow these 4 easy steps to attend!
As of now, each step takes place at a different time of year, and on a different system.
However, we'll post things below as they become available to keep it as easy as possible for you.
However, we'll post things below as they become available to keep it as easy as possible for you.
Step 1:
Book your hotel*We reserve blocks at several preferred local hotels. We recommend booking early, as the blocks do sell out. Hotels and accommodations within 30 mi of Harrisonburg very frequently sell out on football weekends.
Rates displayed in order from $ - $$$ |
COMFORT INN BY CHOICE HOTELS
1.8 mi walk from Bridgeforth Stadium - near East Campus / Public post-game shuttle service available
HAMPTON INN BY HILTON
1.8 mi walk from Bridgeforth Stadium - near East Campus / Public post-game shuttle service available
FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES BY MARRIOTT
1.5 walk from Bridgeforth Stadium - near East Campus / Public post-game shuttle service available
COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT1.6mi walk from Bridgeforth Stadium - near East Campus / Public post-game shuttle service available
HOTEL MADISON
0.7 mi walk from Bridgeforth Stadium - near Downtown Harrisonburg / There is not post-game shuttle service available to Hotel Madison due to its close proximity to the stadium
Hotels noT available for BLOCK rate this year
HOME2 SUITES BY HILTON2.2 mi walk from Bridgeforth Stadium - near East Campus / Public post-game shuttle service available
*Hotel Booking Disclaimer & Indemnification: MRD Alumni and JMU Alumni Association provides hotel information as a courtesy to our alumni community but is not responsible for any aspect of your lodging arrangements. This includes, but is not limited to, room rates, availability, additional fees, taxes, cancellation policies, or service quality. Please be advised that hotel rates and availability are subject to change at any time without notice, and are managed solely at the discretion of each individual hotel. We do not guarantee pricing or reservation availability for any suggested accommodations. By booking lodging in connection with MRD Alumni and JMU Alumni Association events, you agree to assume full responsibility for your reservation and to indemnify and hold harmless the MRD Alumni and JMU Alumni Association, its officers, volunteers, and representatives from any and all claims, costs, liabilities, or disputes related to your hotel stay. |
Step 2:
Buy your block ticketWe reserve a football stadium seating block with the JMU Athletics Ticket Office. If you don't purchase an official block ticket, you won't have walk-in access to the seating block.
Good news! Our ticket price has been reduced by $10 to $48 for 2026. |
Step 3:
Register for MRD Alumni Band WeekendIf you're partaking in any MRD Alumni Band Weekend activities including marching at halftime, please register.
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OFFICIAL EVENT REGISTRATION
Optionally, you may purchase value-oriented gear including hats, a purple hooded jacket or commemorative Alumni Band Weekend shirt. Cutoff date for ordering gear for pickup at MRD Alumni Band Weekend is October 30. Wearing any type of purple top is considered our "uniform" for marching on the field.
If you'd like to purchase an official name tag, grab one here.
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Step 4:
Register for the Indoor Pregame Alumni "Tailgate"This event is prepaid and walk-ins cannot be accommodated. All attendees must pre-register.
Adults 21+ receive 2 alcohol-optional beverage tickets upon check-in. |
INDOOR PREGAME ALUMNI "TAILGATE"Join fellow MRD Alumni and families at the Hall of Presidents (D-Hall 3rd floor) for panoramic views of campus while enjoying a exclusive casual pregame catered meal with food, drinks, and socializing! Fare typically includes classic tailgate-style (or) brunch selections if the event is held earlier in the day — with the menu appropriate to the time of day.
Keynote speaker: To be announced
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Check out how our event has grown over the years... so... are you in?
Presented by:
If you're interested in displaying your company's logo on our website via a yearly sponsorship, please reach out to: [email protected]
Official chapter of the JMU Alumni Association.
© Marching Royal Dukes Alumni 2002 Alumni Dr MSC 4402 Harrisonburg, VA 22807-1012