It’s been a little over three months since the final moments of the 2026 Drum Corps International Tour sounded off, but the first signs of the 2027 season are already coming well into focus.
With corps recruitment season entering full swing and open house and audition camps scheduled across the country in the coming months, all signs point toward another unforgettable summer. Leading up to and through the official release of the 2027 DCI Tour schedule on Wednesday, November 25, here are a few key dates to circle on your calendar:
Ongoing into Spring
JOIN A DRUM CORPS: While early audition camps are already underway, the search for the next roster of DCI performers is just getting started.
Whether you’re traveling across state lines for an intensive audition weekend or attending an accessible local educational clinic or open house, your journey to the field starts now.
No matter your age, experience or skill level, there is a wide variety of organizations and opportunities to get involved with and pursue on the 2027 DCI Tour. Text MARCH to 866-866-5009, visit dci.fan/MarchDrumCorps to get started, or check your target corps’ website to explore open positions and upcoming recruitment events.
Additionally, don’t miss the just-released fall edition of Drum Corps International Magazine which is packed with resources designed to give performers the confidence to take the field in 2027.
Wednesday, November 25
2027 DCI TOUR SCHEDULE RELEASE: A Thanksgiving tradition, the newest edition of the DCI Tour schedule gives fans their first look at who’s going where and when across the entire 2027 summer season.
As part of this year’s schedule drop, tickets to the following individual regional and championship events will go on sale to the general public beginning Wednesday, November 25 at 12 p.m. ET:
- DCI Southwestern Championship presented by Fred J. Miller | San Antonio | Saturday, July 24
- TENTATIVE: DCI Southeastern Championship | Atlanta | Saturday, July 31
- DCI Eastern Classic presented by Yokohama Tire | Allentown | Friday, August 6 & Saturday, August 7
- DCI World Championship Prelims | Indianapolis | Thursday, August 12
- DCI World Championship Semifinals & All-Age Prelims | Indianapolis | Friday, August 13
- DCI All-Age World Championship Finals | Indianapolis | Saturday, August 14
- DCI World Championship Finals | Indianapolis | Saturday, August 14
Wednesday, January 6 – Sunday January 10
DCI ANNUAL MEETING & RULES CONGRESS: Each winter, DCI’s annual business meetings bring together leaders from all corners of the activity to Indianapolis to plan for the upcoming summer tour and advance the long-term sustainability of drum corps.
Alongside executive business sessions and drum major leadership workshops, the 2027 DCI Rules Congress returns. Here instructors, designers and corps leadership will gather to discuss, debate, and vote on proposed rules changes aimed at refining the competitive and artistic landscape of the tour.
Thursday, March 4
INTERNATIONAL MARCHING MUSIC DAY: Founded by Drum Corps International in 2017, Marching Music Day celebrates the dynamic impact of the marching arts worldwide. The date itself — March Fourth — serves as a fitting play on words for the global community.
Every year on March 4, fans, alumni, and performers take the opportunity to “March Forth” by wearing their favorite corps gear, sharing memories, and supporting organizations across the activity. Sitting right in the middle of spring prep, it also serves as a crucial milestone as corps finalize their rosters for the upcoming 2027 Tour.
Saturday, June 26
2027 DCI TOUR KICKS OFF: Live competitive performances for the 2027 season kick off during the final weekend of June. Keep an eye out for early-season action starting in the East with the Barnum Festival: Champions on Parade event in Shelton, Connecticut.
Don’t miss any additional developments as the 2027 off-season marches along. Sign up to receive Drum Corps International’s weekly e-newsletter for the latest news and information.
