Those familiar with the drum corps activity know that a relentless focus on the most granular details is one of the hallmarks of the world’s most elite marching music ensembles. Those new to the party quickly learn that “the drum corps way” is paved with intensive attention to even the finest particulars—all in the pursuit of achieving standard-setting performances by remarkable young performers.

This uncompromising approach is even more apparent in the extraordinary planning process for this year’s “Celebration Tour,” which has been in the works for nearly a year. Guided by its “Tour Restart Task Force,” a team of professional medical, health, safety and logistics experts, Drum Corps International and its participating organizations have implemented a series of new safety protocols designed to keep all participants and fans as safe as possible. To that end, 2021’s Celebration Events present some important differences with regard to several longstanding practices enjoyed by generations of drum corps supporters.

“We know that interacting with corps performers and staff “backstage” during warm-ups and post-show periods has long been a part of the tradition of the DCI Tour, but we must respectfully ask that you respect all of the safeguards which have been implemented this season by the participating organizations in partnership with DCI and our host facilities,” said Dan Acheson, DCI CEO. “We request no in-person visits by family or friends before or after the show. Performers will not be permitted to return to the stadium after their group’s performance. Only corps members and staff with assigned roles are permitted in some places, including warm-up zones, parking and eating areas, as well as corps entry and exit areas and tunnels.”

Additionally, DCI asks audience members to please be mindful of those seated nearby, and to maintain a respectful social distance from other audience members whenever possible.

Drum Corps International is grateful to all of the loyal fans and family members respecting the safety of our corps members and guests and for their continued support of the outstanding organizations which comprise Marching Music’s Major League™.

Learn more about the Tour Reopening Task Force and DCI’s Celebration Planning Process