Drums and Drafts fundraiser to benefit McNeese marching band
The Pride of McNeese Marching Band will host its second Drums and Drafts fundraiser 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 4, at Crying Eagle Brewery, 1165 East McNeese St.
Participants will be able to eat food from area food trucks while enjoying performances from McNeese ensembles, including the drum line, steel drum band and African dance ensemble.
Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door —which includes admission, entertainment and two of Crying Eagle’s popular beers.
A live raffle at the event will give away a commemorative gift basket, which will include beer, speciality beverage containers and McNeese and Crying Eagle apparel.
“What better way to spend your Saturday evening and to help put the Pride of McNeese in more stadiums every season?” said Jay Jacobs, Mc-Neese director of bands.
Proceeds from the fundraiser will go toward the band’s travel expenses.
“The marching band is continuing to grow by at least 20 members a year, but it increases our travel expenses,” Jacobs said.
“But travel benefits us as far as growth and retention of band members.”
The Pride of McNeese travels with five charter buses and provides food and lodging to its members.
A day trip to an away game can cost as much as $15,000, with an overnight trip totaling up to $25,000.
“For as much exposure and branding the band program does, it’s really an expensive venture,” Jacobs said.
“The university is as supportive as they can be but in order for us to really get the most exposure, we need to do some travel.”
Advance tickets for $20 can be purchased at the McNeese Alumni Center or McNeese band office until Aug. 3 and at the door for $25. For more ticket information, call 475-5004 or 475-5232.
The Drums and Drafts fundraiser will be 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 4, at Crying Eagle Brewery, 1165 East McNeese St.