Houston’s Own Shine Bright: Local Students Gear Up for the 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
As millions across America prepare to gather around their televisions for the annual spectacle, two talented students from the Houston area are set to experience the magic of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade firsthand. Hannah Bockhahn and Lance Jehlik will join the elite Macy’s Great American Marching Band, performing live on the bustling streets of Manhattan during the parade’s 99th annual celebration. This isn’t just a performance; it’s the culmination of dedication, passion, and a dream come true for these young Texans.
A Dream Takes Flight: Houston’s Stars Head to Manhattan
Hannah Bockhahn, a senior at Cy-Fair High School, and Lance Jehlik, a junior at Cypress Woods High School, have earned their coveted spots among the nation’s top young performers. Their selection for the prestigious Macy’s Great American Marching Band means they will be part of one of the most iconic and watched events of the year, bringing their musical and performance talents to a global audience during the Thanksgiving Day Parade.
For many, witnessing the larger-than-life balloons and vibrant performances of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a cherished tradition. For Hannah and Lance, this year marks an unforgettable chapter as they transition from spectators to stars, embodying the spirit of aspiration and hard work.
From PE Credit to National Stage: Hannah’s Journey
Hannah’s path to the grandeur of the Macy’s parade began with a surprisingly humble motivation: a physical education credit. “I honestly auditioned for it because I thought it would be an easier P.E. credit. It definitely wasn’t,” she recalls with a laugh. However, that initial step quickly blossomed into a profound passion for color guard. Now in her fourth year, Hannah is one of only 40 color guard members chosen nationwide for this spectacular event. Her dedication transformed a simple credit into a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, proving that sometimes, the biggest adventures start unexpectedly.
The Rhythm of Dedication: Lance and the Trombone
Lance Jehlik’s journey to the Thanksgiving Day Parade stage was fueled by a lifelong love for music. His ear for rhythm was evident from a young age, and the trombone, with its unique slide, captured his heart. “It’s a very unique instrument because of the slide, and it’s very fun to play,” he shares. Joining approximately 100 other musicians, Lance will lend his talent to several numbers, including a performance of “This Is Me” from The Greatest Showman. His enthusiasm for continuous improvement resonates with his desire to “always just want to keep improving myself and play harder music each year.”
Beyond the Parade: Future Aspirations and Inspiration
Both students learned about this incredible opportunity through connections to previous parades, highlighting the powerful ripple effect of shared experiences. After submitting his video audition, Lance admitted to being 50-50 on his chances against national competition. The moment he received the confirmation text was pure joy.
As they prepare to fly to New York City for a whirlwind of rehearsals and sightseeing, the magnitude of the experience is just beginning to sink in. Hannah, a first-time visitor to NYC proper, anticipates the moment she sees the city skyline from her plane window. Lance, though he has visited New York in summer, is eager to experience the winter chill and perform in colder temperatures for the first time.
The 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade could be just the beginning for these talented individuals. Lance plans to continue his musical journey in college and beyond, exploring competitive marching. Hannah, who aims to study crime scene investigation, hopes to remain active in color guard for several more years, crediting her coaches for her success. Lance emphasizes the honor of representing Houston on such a grand stage: “It’s like such an honor, because I know kids now, they’re looking up to me… I hope that me doing this makes you realize that you can do it too. If you work for it, you can do it.”
This iconic annual event not only marks the start of the holiday season but also serves as a platform for emerging talent, showcasing the power of dreams and dedication. Join us in celebrating Hannah and Lance as they make Houston proud!
